Step Aside If You Won’t Accept or Practice Tradition, Olowo Tells Monarchs

The Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers and Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, has issued a stern warning to monarchs who abandon traditional rites and practices after ascending the throne, urging them to step aside if they are unwilling to uphold the sacred customs of their people.

Speaking at a gathering of traditional rulers in Akure on Thursday, Oba Ogunoye emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous values, customs, and traditions, which he described as the bedrock of the monarchy system in Yoruba land.

According to the Olowo, a growing trend of newly installed kings refusing to participate in traditional rites under the guise of modernity or religion poses a threat to the cultural heritage and identity of their communities.

“A king is first a custodian of tradition. If you are not ready to carry the burden and pride of your people’s culture, you have no business being on the throne,” he stated.

Oba Ogunoye warned that continued neglect of these responsibilities could lead to a loss of respect and relevance of the monarchy in the society. He called on kingmakers and community elders to prioritize cultural competence and readiness to uphold tradition when selecting future traditional leaders.

The monarch’s remarks come amid increasing controversies surrounding traditional rites in several communities across the South-West, where some rulers have clashed with traditionalists or declined to observe customary practices due to personal beliefs.