CITIZENS COMPASS – Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Ikorodu Division in Lagos State, yesterday, refuted an online publication about rifts between the Council Chairman and the Adeboruwa on Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Abdul-Semiu Orimadegun Kasali.
The Council described the online report as misleading, inaccurate, sensationalised, and a deliberate attempt to assassinate the character of the Council.
The online publication attributed the rift to the recent appointment of the Acting Iyaloja-General in Igbogbo/Baiyeku Kingdom, Chief (Mrs) Mojisola Oyesanya.
The Council debunked the rifts in a statement on its social media platform on Thursday.
“The recent publication by The IMPACT NEWS concerning the transition of market leadership in Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA is a glaring example of unprofessional journalism riddled with inaccuracies, sensationalism, and a deliberate attempt at character assassination.
“As a responsible administration, it is essential to provide clarity, refute the misleading assertions, and call for a cessation of unethical reporting practices by The IMPACT NEWS.
“According to the Lagos State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development which was represented by the Director of Lagos State Market Development and Secretary to the Lagos State Market Advisory Board, Mr. James Kakawa: In the event of the passing of an incumbent Iyaloja, the Deputy Iyaloja-General is required to step into the role of Acting Iyaloja-General to maintain continuity and order.
“The Adeboruwa palace was duly informed of the meeting, as acknowledged in the report. It is therefore baseless to suggest a lack of recognition or respect for the traditional institution.
“Claims of political bias
The assertion that the Chairman and members of the political class are supporting a particular candidate for personal interests is not only false but also a malicious attempt to undermine the integrity of the administration. Decisions regarding market leadership are based on merit, due process, and the need to maintain order and development within the LCDA.
“Misrepresentation of facts:
The publication erroneously portrays the appointment of Chief (Mrs) Oyesanya as a fait accompli for a substantive position. The announcement was explicitly for an acting capacity to ensure continuity, as provided by the law, while the selection process for a substantive Iyaloja-General is ongoing. This misrepresentation is a clear attempt to sow discord and misinform the public.
Impact News Misguided Narrative – It is particularly disturbing that The Impact continues to peddle a false narrative of a “face-off” between the Chairman of Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA and the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo. This claim is entirely baseless and deliberately misleading. The Chairman holds the Adeboruwa Palace in the highest esteem and remains committed to fostering harmonious relationships with traditional institutions. The Impact News is hereby advised to desist from sowing seeds of discord and engaging in character assassination. Such practices are not only unethical but also detrimental to the unity and progress of the community.
While the administration remains committed to its statutory responsibilities, we recognize the role of traditional institutions in fostering unity and peace. As such, we remain open to constructive dialogue, collaboration and follow due process with the Adeboruwa Palace and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition of market leadership.
“The administration of Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA is resolute in upholding the law, maintaining order, and fostering development in the community. Baseless allegations and unprofessional reporting will not deter us from fulfilling our mandate. We call on all stakeholders, including the media, to prioritise facts, fairness, and the collective interest of our community.”
