The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji on Friday in Ibadan, installed Chief Yekini Abass popularly known as YK Abass as the new Babaloja of Oyo State.
The News Agency Nigeria(NAN) reports that Abasss had succeeded late Alhaji Adisa Oladapo, who died on June 19 after spending 15 years as Babaloja.
Abass, a renowned textile merchant is an Ibadan socialite and former Director of Shooting Stars Sports Club(3SC).
Oba. Adetunji described the new Babaloja as a successful business and sports enthusiast, who had contributed immensely to the development in the state.
He said that the new Babaloja rose from being a local textile merchant to an international business tycoon, employing scores of people in his chain of businesses.
The monarch said that Abass was the right and credible individual to lead traders in the state considering the contributions of the new Babaloja to the development of Oyo state, .
Adetunji said the newly installed Babaloja is lucky to be installed while he was celebrating his birthday, describing the installation as a success for the entire people of the state.
The Olubadan prayed for peaceful coexistence of traders in Ibadanland, Oyo state and Nigeria.
Abass thanked Gov. Seyi Makinde and all the traditional rulers in state including the Olubadan, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi and Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewunmi.
The new Babaloja thanked Makinde for allowing traders to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, saying the action prevented traders from suffering at the difficult period.
He promised to always protect the interest of market men and women across the state and partner government in ensuring conducive environment for trading.
Abass assured the government, traders and people of the state that he won’t discriminate against anyone.
He urged traders to keep observing COVID- 19 protocol as outlined by the government at all levels.
NAN reports that the installation ceremony which took place at the popoyemoja palace of the monarch was attended by Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Lekan Balogun and Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Owolabi Olakunleyin.
Others are High Chief Eddy Oyewele, High Chief Gbadamosi Adebimpe, High Chief Kola Adegbola, High Chief Amidu Ajibade and High Chief Azeez Agagagugu.
(NAN)
