* Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN)
The Pathfinder
Tuesday April 21, 2026
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A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adeniyi Akintola, has attributed many public controversies in Nigeria to widespread ignorance and a poor understanding of legal, cultural, and traditional systems.
Speaking on a programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ogun State, Akintola said several societal disputes stem from misinformation and misinterpretation of established legal and cultural frameworks.
He explained that law does not conflict with culture but rather reinforces it, stressing that effective legislation must align with the values and traditions of the people.
According to him, persistent ignorance in public discourse has led to the distortion of cultural practices, with some individuals promoting harmful traditions while ignoring positive societal values.
Akintola further noted that for laws to be enforceable and respected, they must reflect the realities and norms of the society they govern.
Addressing the Ibadan traditional system, he said many misconceptions about its structure arise from a lack of historical knowledge. He explained that before Nigeria’s independence, several areas now within Osun State were part of the Ibadan District Council, influencing the current traditional administrative structure.
He outlined the hierarchy within the Ibadan chieftaincy system, noting that aside from the Olubadan and the Iyalode, there are 11 high chiefs operating under the Mogaji framework.
The legal expert added that members of the Olubadan-in-Council function as public office holders and are entitled to government remuneration.
Akintola also referenced past legal disputes involving chieftaincy titles, including cases where individuals from outside Ibadan sought positions within the system, creating institutional challenges.
On reforms, he stated that changes to the chieftaincy structure were initiated by Ibadan elites and formalised during the administration of former Governor Abiola Ajimobi, adding that Governor Seyi Makinde has continued to implement the same framework.
Citing provisions of the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law, Akintola said appointments into the Olubadan-in-Council follow due process, with the Olubadan making recommendations which are subsequently formalised by the state governor.
He dismissed claims that recent appointments were unilaterally made by the government, insisting that such decisions originate from traditional authorities.
On concerns about the absence of newly appointed chiefs at official functions, he described such expectations as misplaced, likening the process to structured promotions within the civil service.
Akintola also noted that political participation by traditional title holders remains a matter for judicial interpretation, citing precedents where individuals relinquished professional roles before assuming traditional positions.
He concluded that the Ibadan chieftaincy system remains orderly and hierarchical, dismissing claims of any rift between the government and the Olubadan as unfounded.
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