Balogun Chieftaincy House tackles Soun over suspension of Saka Balogun

The Balogun Taiwo Atere-Gbebi Family has taken a swipe at the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, over the suspension of Dr Saka Balogun as Balogun of Ogbomosoland.

The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, had, in a letter addressed to Balogun, announced his indefinite suspension as Balogun of Ogbomosoland for his alleged refusal to sign the Oath of Allegiance to the throne, as mandated by custom.

The family, in a letter signed by the Secretary of the Balogun Chieftaincy House, Balogun Olajire Raufu, and dated October 22, 2026, said there was neither query nor prior communication with the family before the decision was taken by the Soun.

He noted that Balogun had been denied access to the palace on two occasions, adding, ‘It is on record that twice Balogun and his entourage were denied entrance to the palace since installation on 19th December 2025 during the observation of the traditional homage (Ikije)

‘On Wednesday, 21st October 2026, the family received letter of suspension from the palace without anybprevious communication, dialogue or query.

‘This is very strange to the family and the Balogun of Ogbomosoland, hence the letter to His Excellency, the Executive governor of Oyo state through the Honoirable Commissioner of Local government to kindly intercede on our behalf concerning the suspensio.

‘It is on record that the Balogun has not been paid salary since April 2025.

Meanwhile, Oba Olaoye has been resolute over the suspension order placed on the Balogun of Ogbomosoland.

The order was contained in a letter personally signed by Oba Olaoye, titled ‘Letter of Indefinite suspension from the title of Balogun of Ogbomosoland’, dated October 20, 2026.

The Oath of Allegiance to the throne, according to the letter, is neither optional nor ceremonial but a prerequisite for recognition as a member of the Executive Council Chiefs of Ogbomosoland.

‘It was a fundamental requirement for the proper assumption and exercise of the responsibilities and authority attached to the title.”

Oba Olaoye said it was stated in the appointment letter of assumption of office issued to Balogun, dated December 19, 2025, that the customary Oath of Allegiance to the office of the Soun of Ogbomosoland is a prerequisite for full participation in the Council of Executive Chiefs.

He added that until the oath is formally signed, Balogun will not be seated among the other Executive Chiefs.

The monarch, however, alleged that, despite the understanding reached before his installation, Balogun had failed to sign the oath and had demonstrated no intention of fulfilling the obligation.

“Of even greater concern are your public statements and conduct, particularly the interview in which you threatened to take the stool of the Soun to court.

‘Such pronouncements are deeply regrettable and constitute a grave affront to the dignity of the throne, the sanctity of the Palace, and the institution you were privileged to serve.”

ALSO READ: Why African, Russian varsities must focus on training of engineers —TAU VC

The monarch described the reported threat as an affront to the dignity of the throne and the institution of the palace, adding that the conduct had brought embarrassment to the traditional institution and undermined its standing.

Consequently, Oba Olaoye directed Balogun to stop presenting himself or acting in any official capacity as the Balogun of Ogbomosoland for the duration of the suspension.

He also barred him from exercising any authority, privilege or responsibility associated with the title, as well as undertaking official engagements, making representations or issuing communications in the name of the office.

The monarch maintained that the traditional institution of Ogbomosoland was founded on respect for constituted authority, adherence to established customs and the fulfilment of obligations attached to traditional titles.

He added that no title holder should expect to retain the privileges and recognition of an office while persistently rejecting its fundamental requirements.