Iresaadu community rejects Soun of Ogbomoso’s town hall meeting

Summary

• Iresaadu indigenes oppose perceived overreach by Oba Ghandi Olaoye
• Elders say town hall plan disrespected local customs and protocol
• Community urges monarch to prioritise peace and respect boundaries

Iresaadu, Oyo State, Nigeria – The Iresaadu community in Oyo State has firmly rejected a planned town hall meeting by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, citing a breach of traditional protocol, jurisdictional overreach, and concerns about cultural preservation.

The meeting, scheduled to hold on 3 July 2025 at Iresaadu High School, was intended as an engagement forum between the monarch and the community. However, it was met with strong opposition from Iresaadu’s elders, royal families, and residents, who issued a formal statement rejecting the initiative.

According to the statement, the community was not properly notified through traditional or official channels, which they considered a sign of disrespect. The elders and kingmakers emphasised that any such engagement must first be discussed and approved through the appropriate customary structures.

A key issue raised was the perception that the Soun was attempting to assert influence beyond his traditional domain. While Ogbomoso is one of five local government areas in the “Ogbomoso zone,” Iresaadu residents stressed that the Soun’s authority is limited to Ogbomoso North Local Government.

The community further argued that allowing the meeting would “disrespect and disregard” their customs, undermining Iresaadu’s identity and autonomy. Instead, they called on the monarch to cancel the meeting and respect the boundaries of his traditional role.

In an appeal to the monarch’s pastoral background, the statement urged Oba Olaoye to act in the spirit of peace and harmony, maintaining good relations through appropriate dialogue rather than assertive engagement.

Public reaction on social media echoed the community’s concerns, with users describing the Soun’s action as “overstepping authority.” The rejection highlights ongoing tensions in the region over traditional boundaries and leadership roles.

As of the latest reports dated 2 July 2025, there is no confirmation that the meeting proceeded. The Soun is yet to issue a public response, and it remains unclear whether further steps will be taken to resolve the matter through consultation.