Why Jonathan Did Not Visit Olubadan – Presidency

The Presidency on Thursday cleared the air on why President Goodluck Jonathan was unable to pay a visit to the Olubaban, saying it was not necessary since the President had two trips to the royal father’s palace on his schedule already.

The Presidency was reacting to a statement accusing President ‎Jonathan. of disregarding the Olubadan stool by passing through Ibadan without stopping by to see the Olubadan.

The Olubadan in Council had also alleged that by proceeding to Oyo to see the Alafin of Oyo without stopping by to see him, Jonathan gave more recognition to the Alafin of Oyo.

But clarifying on the matter on Thursday, special adviser to the President on media and publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati said, rather treating the royal father with disrespect, “the President holds  Olubadan, people of Ibadan and people of Oyo State and the people of the South-west in general in high esteem.

“He considers the Olubadan a father and a great Nigerian and has enjoyed excellent relationship with him, the people of Ibadan, people of Oyo State and the ‎people of South-west. And since he assumed office, he has been to the palace of Olubadan to pay homage.

“But on this particular occasion it happened that the schedule of the President indicated that he had at least two trips to Ibadan within the first quarter of the year. He will be in Ibadan for the PDP South-west rally and he is scheduled to visit and pay homage to the Olubadan.

“The Olubadan will be celebrating his 100 years birthday in April and the President has been previously scheduled to visit.  So for these reasons, you can see very clearly that there was no intention to ignore the Olubadan’s palace to pay homage to him. And in due course, the President will be in Ibadan,” Abati said.
Download unlimited e-books in various disciplines for FREE
Get Breaking News on BBM - add our PIN - 232FC0E9
Follow on Twitter to receive updates every hour
Don't miss the next news item - LIKE our Facebook page