The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed Dr. Saka Adegbite Balogun as the duly recognised Balogun of Ogbomosoland, declaring his purported removal by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, contrary to the existing laws governing traditional institutions in the state.
The government’s position was contained in a press statement issued on Friday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, and made available to journalists.
According to the statement, the government’s attention had been drawn to media reports concerning the purported removal of Dr. Saka Adegbite Balogun by the monarch.
Citing Section 26(1) of the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, Cap. 28, 2000, the government maintained that the authority to appoint, suspend or depose a Part II recognised chieftaincy holder rests exclusively with the state governor.
It consequently described the purported removal of Dr. Balogun by the Soun of Ogbomoso as an aberration and an action inconsistent with the legal framework regulating traditional council operations in Oyo State.
“In the light of this, Dr. Saka Adegbite Balogun is the duly recognised Balogun of Ogbomosoland,” the statement declared.
The government further urged members of the public to disregard reports or claims suggesting that Dr. Balogun had been lawfully removed from the traditional position.
The declaration reinforces the state government’s position on the statutory powers governing recognised chieftaincy titles and the authority responsible for determining the status of such officeholders in Oyo State.
