ba towns like Ogbomoso and Ibadan rise to prominence. Any attempt to sidestep that reality in favour of sentiment is unjust,” the statement read.
The Mogajis emphasised that the current Oyo Kingdom, founded in 1875 by Prince Atiba, is distinct from the original Oyo Empire ruled by Alaafin Oranmiyan.
They claimed that the present Oyo town occupies land originally belonging to Ogbomoso’s Oja lineage and recalled historical events where Ogbomoso and Ibadan provided refuge and protection to the migrating Oyos.
They further argued that Ogbomoso played a vital role in halting the Fulani advance into core Yoruba land by standing firm between Ilorin and Oyo, preserving not only their town but also protecting the emerging Oyo settlement.
“The powers and glory of the old Oyo Empire are buried in Katunga. What exists today is a new kingdom, and hierarchy must reflect this post-1837 history,” they asserted.
Citing past legal victories, including a Supreme Court judgement in 1984 awarding disputed land to Ogbomoso over Oyo, the Mogajis pointed out that even in contemporary times, Ogbomoso’s historical and territorial relevance cannot be ignored.
They reiterated that the Soun of Ogbomoso has served as chairman of the council in the past during the reign of late Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III, and insisted that the rotational system must be preserved.
“We reject any move to make the Alaafin the permanent chairman. Rotational leadership reflects fairness and historical accuracy. “Sentiment cannot override historical truth. We have no apology for defending the dignity and legacy of Ogbomoso,” the Mogajis stated.
They advised the Oyo State House of Assembly to respect the diverse historical contributions of all Yoruba towns and uphold the rotational chairmanship structure to avoid discord and preserve unity among the traditional rulers in the state.