The Onido of Ido, Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola (Gbadewolu I), has been suspended by the Oyo State Government. The government did not state the specific reason for the suspension in the letter sent to the traditional ruler.
However, it has been revealed in a report by Newscoven.com that the Onido was suspended due to his alleged involvement with illegal miners operating in the local government area.
Governor Seyi Makinde, in the four-paragraph statement, mentioned that he suspended the Onido of Ido in accordance with the powers bestowed upon him by the Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000. The traditional ruler was instructed to hand over all government properties to the chairman of Ido Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, explained that the suspension was based on an intelligence report linking the Onido to illegal miners in the area. He reiterated the government’s commitment to cracking down on criminals, regardless of their status. The aim of the suspension was to send a message to those involved in criminal activities that they are in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The possibility of the Onido being dethroned after the investigation is conclusive is still uncertain. The Commissioner stated that “all options are on the table.”
It should be noted that Oba Babalola became the Onido in 2018 after the deposition of his predecessor, Baale Tajudeen Agura, by the late Olubadan of Ibadanland. The deposed Baale Agura criticized the lineage of Oba Babalola, calling them laborers in Ido. However, Oba Babalola defended his claim to the throne, stating that he had historical evidence to support his ascension.
