By DAVID ADEOYE

Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, on Friday, elevated nine chiefs from the Balogun line, even as he urged them to see their elevation as a call for more service to the ancient city.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the occasion, which was the traditional ruler’s first official function since his coronation on March 11, was held at Olubadan’s ancestral Ali-Iwo palace in Ibadan.

Oba Balogun urged the newly-promoted chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them by Ibadan people for whom they hold their titles in trust by rededicating themselves to the service of Ibadan land.

“I charge you all to see your elevated positions and the future ones as call to Ibadan duty in particular and humanity in general.

“The elevation calls for more commitment, loyalty and sacrifice, and I pray that our ancestors will back you and grant you the ability to meet up with the demands of your respective titles,” he stated.

NAN reports that the promotion of the new chiefs was sequel to the vacancies in the Balogun line.

Highlights of the event was the receipt of the traditional ‘akoko leaves’ by the promoted chiefs and the mandatory rite from Oluwo Afobaje of Ibadanland, Alhaji Wahab Mosadogun.

The promoted senior chiefs are: Akeem Adewoyin, Abese; Sharafadeen Alli, Maye; Adegboyega Adeniran, Ekefa; Taiwo Oyekan, Agbaakin; Raufu Eleruwere, Aare Alasa) and Emiola Onideure, Ikolaba.

Others are: Arowolo Obisesan, Asaju; Wasiu Ajimobi, Ayingun and Gboyega Modi, Aare Ago.

NAN reports that all the members of Olubadan-in-Council, with the exception of Osi-Olubadan, Chief Rashidi Ladoja, were present at the occasion. (NAN)