The Oyo State Government has faulted claims by some corporate organisations that they are sponsoring the coronation of the Olubadan-Designate, High Chief Saliu Adetunji, billed for Friday.
The state government said in Ibadan on Thursday that the coronation committee headed by the Otun Olubadan, Dr Lekan Balogun, was the only recognised body vested with preparations for the coronation.
Mr Yomi Layinka, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, said this while speaking with newsmen.
“This committee comprises representatives of the Olubadan-in-council, Iyalode and Olubadan designate’s younger brother, Alhaji Ambali Adetunji,” he said.
Layinka, who heads the media sub-committee for the coronation, said that top government officials led by a former Secretary to the State Government, Mr Olalekan Alli, were also part of the committee.
He said that the Oyo State Signage and Advertisement Agency, which is responsible for giving approvals for mounting billboards, had not received any application from any corporate organisation in respect of the coronation.
Layinka warned that the law enforcement agencies had been put on alert to watch out for illegal display of billboards under the guise of sponsorship of the coronation.
“We need to make a categorical statement that no organisation is mandated or authorised to be branded as sponsors of the Olubadan inauguration ceremony.
“No sponsor has been accredited to manage or brand the event surrounding the coronation ceremony of Olubadan of Ibadan scheduled for the March 4,” he said.
” We understand that a purported advisory group to the Olubadan-Designate has been soliciting support and collaborating with some individuals.
“This is aimed at raising funds and seeking branding and marketing opportunities surrounding the event.
“It should be noted that there is no such accreditation from the recognised coronation committee led by High Chief Lekan Balogun and other high chiefs and government representatives.
“But, the committee will still be willing to do business with them if they follow due process,’’ he said.
