Olubadan declares Sarkin Sasa title null and void in Oyo state

April 08, 2025

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has nullified the title of Sarkin Sasa in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, citing that it is not recognized by Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy Law.

This declaration was made during the Olubadan-In-Council meeting at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, in Ibadan.

The late Sarkin Sasa, Alhaji Haruna Mai-Yatsin Katsina, was the Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in the 17 Southern States of Nigeria. Following his demise, his son, Ahmed Haruna (Ciroma), was nominated as the new Sarkin Sasa by the family and traditional councils without the consent of the Olubadan.

However, the Olubadan has declared that Chief Akinade Ajani Amusa is the recognized Baale of Sasa land and the accredited representative of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the monarch, Gbenga Ayoade, said, “Chief Akinade Ajani Amusa is the recognised Baale of Sasa land in the Akinyele Local Area of the state, and the accredited representative of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.”

The Olubadan warned that any individual or group in Sasa land must accord the Baale the appropriate respect and authority, stating, “Let it be noted that any individual or group of persons in Sasa land are under the authority of the Baale of Sasa land; Akinade Ajani.

“It is therefore imperative to accord him the appropriate respect and authority.

Any disobedience to his directive will be met with serious sanctions as it will be considered an affront to the Olubadan stool.”

The Concerned Youths of Sasa had expressed concerns over the attempt to establish a Hausa-Fulani ruling dynasty in Ibadanland, which they believe would perpetuate Hausa-Fulani hegemony in Sasa at the expense of the indigenous Yoruba people.

The youths argue that the title “Sarkin Sasa” is not recognized by the Chiefs Law of Oyo State and is therefore an illegality.

Think Yoruba First (TYF), a socio-cultural and socio-political organization, established for the restoration and preservation of Yoruba culture played a significant role in resolving this issue.

TYF pushed for the matter to be brought to the attention of the Maye Olubadan of Ibadan.

Their efforts ultimately led to the resolution of the issue, with the Olubadan declaring the Sarkin Sasa title null and void.

TYF’ advocacy on the rights and traditions of the Yoruba people ensured that the Olubadan’s authority was respected and maintained.