Dispute erupts over enthronement of new Alaba of Abanla

By Adejayan Gbenga –

A succession crisis is unfolding in the Abanla community, Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State, as controversy trails the move to install a new Alaba of Abanla.

The stool became vacant following the death of the late monarch, Oba Olabiyi Oladipo, in August 2024. Since then, various ruling houses have been jostling to produce his successor.

Tension heightened over the weekend after reports emerged that Pa Totoola Oladipo had been selected as the next Alaba. His nomination, however, has sparked protests from the Osanyindina family, one of the ruling houses.

In a statement made available to journalists, the family faulted the choice of Pa Totoola, describing it as a breach of Oyo State’s chieftaincy laws and the long-standing customs guiding succession to the throne.

“Pa Totoola is neither the eldest son of the family nor a person of unquestionable character. We cannot sit back and allow someone with a tainted record to ascend the revered Alaba stool,” the statement read in part.

The family further maintained that tradition demands the eldest qualified male ascend the throne, stressing that the process must reflect fairness, transparency, and respect for cultural values.

They therefore called on the Oyo State Government and relevant authorities to intervene in order to prevent what they termed “an imposition” on the community. The family also vowed to resist any attempt to undermine due process in the selection.

The development has thrown Abanla into uncertainty, with fears that the dispute could drag into prolonged litigation or escalate into wider communal tensions if not swiftly resolved.