A renowned activist in Oyo township, Hon. Dauda Temitope Wahab has expressed deep concerns regarding the proposed bills on traditional rulers and the concurrent chairmanship status of the Alaafin of Oyo.
In a letter written to the Honourable members of the Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday, 15th May 2025, and made available to Heritage Echo News, Temitope Wahab stated that the proposed bill, if passed, may have far-reaching implications for the Alaafin stool and the traditional institution in Yorubaland.
He observed that Alaafin remains the custodian of culture and traditions. However, the concurrent chairman stated that the bill is misleading and not in any way promoting the traditional council, which lacks clarity and open policy. It must be stated that Alaafin is the Permanent Chairman and Presiding Officer of the Council, which requires public hearings and consultations.
The letter reads;
Dauda Temitope Wahab
No. 24, Titilope Temidire Street
Cele Area, Oyo
Oyo State
0810-801-9728
15/05/2025
The Honourable Members of the Oyo State House of Assembly,
Oyo State House of Assembly,
Ibadan, Oyo State.
Dear Honourable Members,
Re: Oyo State Bills on Traditional Rulers and Alaafin – Concerns and Implications.
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the proposed bills on traditional rulers and the concurrent chairmanship status of the Alaafin of Oyo.
While I understand the need for modernization and reform, I strongly believe that any legislation affecting our revered traditional institutions must be carefully considered to avoid unintended consequences.
The proposed bill, if passed, may have far-reaching implications for the Alaafin stool and the traditional institution as a whole. I urge you to consider the potential impact on our cultural heritage and the unity of our people.
Specifically, I am concerned about the following:
- Erosion of Traditional Authority: The concurrent chairmanship status may undermine the Alaafin’s traditional authority and create power imbalances.
- Cultural Significance: The Alaafin stool holds immense cultural and historical significance, and any legislation must prioritize the preservation of our traditions.
- Potential for Conflict: The proposed bill may create conflicts between traditional rulers and government agencies, which could destabilize our communities.
I humbly request that you:
- Conduct thorough public hearings and consultations with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and historians.
- Carefully consider the long-term implications of the bill on our cultural heritage and traditional institutions.
- Ensure that any legislation prioritizes the preservation of our traditions and the unity of our people.
I believe that with careful consideration and consultation, we can find a balance between modernization and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Dauda Temitope Wahab,
Prof. T.
Signed
The bill has however passed through the second reading stage and forwarded to the standing committee on local government and Chieftaincy Matters and state honours for further scrutiny and amendment
