The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on Friday, described the Ibira people in Ibadanland as very loyal to the cause of Ibadanland.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Gbenga Ayoade, Olubadan made this known while playing host to the Baale of Ibira Community in Ibadan, Lamidi Balogun and his entourage who paid him a courtesy visit at the new Olubadan palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.

Speaking through the Aremo, Olasunmbo Olakulehin, the monarch said, “Ibadan has a long history of over one hundred years of mutual relationship with Ibira people. The Ibiras are no longer visitors but recognised residents of Ibadanland. They are very loyal to the cause of Ibadanland.

“We have therefore accepted them as one of us given the long-standing peaceful co-existence and look forward to the continuity of the mutually beneficial relationship.”

Earlier, the Baale of the Ibira community, Balogun disclosed that their visit to the Olubadan was a tradition they have maintained over the years.

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