What you need to know about Ibadan kingship system

 I LOVE THE ÌBÀDÀN OBASHIP SYSTEM.

 I know every system has its pros and cons. Also, no matter how good or bad a system is, some people will like it while some won't. In Ìbàdàn, the kings are usually old before they ascend the throne. Therefore, many do not reign for long. This has made many people criticize this system and call for its review but I want to tell you why I feel this system is very beautiful.

There are two lines which are the Ọ̀tún (civil line) and the Balógun (military line). So, it's like a queue that keeps moving. When one Olúbàdàn ascends to be with the ancestors, the next person in line ascends the throne. Here's why I think the system is very good one.

1. You know who the next king is. Since the last Olubadan was from the civil line, the next would be the highest ranking high chief from the military line (Balógun)

2. Each and every Olúbàdàn would have been properly groomed into the traditions of the line. As a Mọ́gàjí, which is like the qualifying stage, your behaviour must begin to exude royalty. There's a statement in Ìbàdàn that a Mọ́gàjí in Ìbàdàn is bigger than the kings of many places. Now, imagine the lines they have to climb after a Mọ́gàjí is promoted to Jagun (Check the picture attached). They would have gained so much knowledge and experience about the land and her traditional fabric.

3. The rulling is not just rotated between some two or three houses. As long as you're a true Ìbàdàn indigene (male), you have a right to the throne. The first step is to be made Mọ́gàjí of your compound.

4. Misbehaviour and desecration of the Olúbàdàn throne is reduced to almost non-existent. Age and wisdom is on the Olúbàdàn's side. He also knows he probably won't be there for too long. The longest reigning Olúbàdàn, Olúbàdàn Okunola Abass ruled for 16 years.

5. It ensures that the throne goes round different individuals from different compounds. Each would be able to contribute his quota towards the development of Ìbàdàn Land.

These are just the five pros I can think of now. The only con is that Olúbàdàns don't reign for long, unlike other Ọbas of Yoruba lands. Presidents and governors don't also reign for long. The maximum is 8 years. The only difference is that they don't necessarily have to die to vacate the seat of power. If you ask me, I'd say that the pros of Ìbàdàn ruling system far outweigh the cons.

Tainkyu (Thank You).