The Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade, has cautioned one Isunmaila Kolawole Salam, also known as Olaiya, against parading himself as the Babaloja of Oyo, describing the claim as illegal and lacking due process.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Media and Publicity at the Oyo palace, Bode Durojaiye, which said the purported installation did not receive the approval of the traditional institution.

According to the statement, any chieftaincy title or equivalent conferred without the Alaafin’s authorisation is “illegal, null and void.” The statement warned Olaiya to immediately desist from presenting himself as a market leader.

The palace explained that it received reports of a recent installation allegedly carried out by individuals led by Mrs Odunayo Danjuma without adhering to established procedures.

“The attention of the ancient Palace of Oyo has been drawn to an illegal self-proclamation and installation of Isunmaila Kolawole Salam as Babaloja of Oyo without due process and authorisation,” the statement read in part.

It further advised the public to avoid dealings with anyone holding an unapproved market title, warning that such engagements would be at their own risk.

The Alaafin stressed that the traditional institution would not tolerate any act that could undermine its authority, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and lawful order within the kingdom. (The Nation)