Royal Embarrassment: Overzealous Security Operatives Stop Alaafin, Olubadan From Stadium Inauguration

For being left stranded at the entrance of newly remodeled Lekan Salami Stadium, two respectable royal fathers in the country, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji are angry.

No thanks to the overzealousness of some security operatives who prevented both prominent traditional rulers from gaining access into the Sports Complex for its commissioning on Wednesday evening.

The complex’s inauguration had caused serious vehicular traffic jam along Mokola, Adamasingba, Dugbe roads and the environs as important personalities and residents trooped to witness the ceremony and first matches to be played at the renovated stadium.

Feeling embarrassed after waiting for almost 30 minutes without any attention, the duo, who had gone to the stadium with their aides, left in angry as security operatives stood their grounds, insisting that only one aide would gain entry with each of the monarchs.

According to eyewitness’ account, the 82-year-old Alaafin and the 93-year-old Ibadan monarch were embarrassed with the security operatives’ unbending position friendly persuasion fell on deaf ears.

Reporting on what transpired at the scene, a source said both monarchs angrily drove off following the humiliating pushing, and shoving at the gate, noting that even moves at having friendly conversations could not calm down frayed nerves.

Contacted on the incident later, Spokesman for the Olubadan, Chief Adeola Oloko confirmed that the revered monarch was treated shabbily by the security personnel.

Oloko described reports on the incident as “Very true despite having the entry requirements”, adding that the monarch did not have anything against Governor Seyi Makinde, who has done a wonderful job at the stadium complex.

He however blamed the overzealous security operatives for what he called ‘lack of discretion’ in handling the situation involving the respected royal fathers.

On his part, the Alaafin’s spokesman, Bode Durojaye, in confirming the incident, said, “Overzealousness of the security agents there prevented the Alaafin from entering.”

Admitting that he was not at the scene of the incident, Durojaye said; “I did not go there, but I have just being briefed.”