The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has unequivocally declared the title of Sarkin Sasa as invalid and unrecognized within the Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy structure. This pronouncement, issued during a meeting of the Olubadan-In-Council at the Oke Aremo Palace in Ibadan, stems from the controversial appointment of Ahmed Haruna (Ciroma) as the new Sarkin Sasa following the demise of his father, Alhaji Haruna Maiyasin Katsina, the former title holder. The late Sarkin Sasa, who also served as the Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in the 17 Southern States of Nigeria, passed away on March 2, 2025.
The controversy surrounding the Sarkin Sasa title arises from the process by which Ahmed Haruna was appointed. While the family of the late Sarkin Sasa and the traditional councils of the 17 southern states unanimously nominated him, the crucial step of obtaining consent from the Olubadan, the paramount traditional ruler of Ibadanland, was omitted. This disregard for established protocol and the Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy Law prompted the Olubadan’s decisive action. The declaration underscores the Olubadan’s authority as the ultimate custodian of traditional titles and leadership within Ibadanland, emphasizing that any such appointments must align with established customs and receive his express approval.
Further solidifying his stance, the Olubadan affirmed Chief Akinade Ajani Amusa as the sole recognized Baale of Sasa land, a community within the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. This clarification serves to delineate the legitimate authority within Sasa and emphasize the existing traditional leadership structure under the Olubadan’s purview. Chief Ajani Amusa is designated as the accredited representative of the Olubadan in Sasa, highlighting the direct link between the community and the Ibadan traditional authority. The Olubadan’s statement explicitly states that all individuals and groups within Sasa land fall under the authority of Chief Ajani Amusa, reinforcing his position and emphasizing the importance of respecting the established hierarchical structure.
The Olubadan’s declaration not only invalidates the Sarkin Sasa title but also carries a strong warning against any further attempts to undermine his authority. He emphasized that any disobedience to Chief Ajani Amusa’s directives will be viewed as a direct affront to the Olubadan stool and will consequently be met with severe sanctions. This firm stance underscores the Olubadan’s commitment to upholding the integrity and legitimacy of the Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy system, emphasizing the importance of adherence to established customs and protocols. The message is clear: any attempt to bypass the Olubadan’s authority in matters of traditional leadership within Ibadanland will not be tolerated.
This incident highlights the complex interplay between different layers of traditional authority, particularly in areas with diverse ethnic populations. While acknowledging the existence of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in the 17 Southern States of Nigeria, the Olubadan’s declaration asserts the primacy of the Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy Law within his domain. It underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting the established hierarchical structures within traditional leadership systems to avoid conflicts and maintain order.
In essence, the Olubadan’s decisive action serves to reaffirm his authority and uphold the integrity of the Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy system. It clarifies the line of authority within Sasa land, emphasizes the importance of adhering to established procedures for conferring traditional titles, and sends a clear message that any deviation from the prescribed protocols will be met with firm action. The declaration serves as a reminder of the Olubadan’s role as the ultimate custodian of tradition and custom within Ibadanland, and his unwavering commitment to preserving the sanctity of the traditional leadership structure.
