Osi Balogun Of Ibadanland, Oba Isioye-Dada, Dies; Ali Set For Promotion To Ekerin Balogun
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — THE Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Olubunmi Isioye Dada, is dead.
A palace source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development to our correspondent on Friday, stating that the monarch died after a brief illness at his residence in Ibadan.
According to the source, members of the Omo Oye family and other palace dignitaries had commenced traditional consultations and visits to the late chief’s residence following the announcement of his passing.
Until his death, Oba Isioye-Dada occupied the position of Osi Balogun, one of the senior chieftaincy titles in the Balogun line of the Ibadan traditional hierarchy.
His demise is expected to trigger a series of promotions within the Balogun line in accordance with the succession structure of the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy system.
Among those expected to benefit from the development is Sharafadeen Alli, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and governorship aspirant, who currently holds the title of Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland.
Subject to the approval of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Senator Alli is expected to be elevated to the position of Ekerin Balogun.
Similarly, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin is expected to move from Ekerin Balogun to the position of Asipa Balogun of Ibadanland as the succession process progresses.
The death of Oba Isioye-Dada marks another significant transition within the Ibadan traditional institution, where promotions along the established chieftaincy ladder are usually determined by vacancies created through death or advancement of title holders.
Further details surrounding the burial arrangements and official palace announcements were still being awaited as of the time of filing this report