In response to a viral photo circulating on social media, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in Oyo State, Oba Francis Alao, addressed the public on Monday, providing clarification on why Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), was seen sitting on one of the palace chairs during a recent event in his domain.
The image sparked various reactions, with some individuals expressing disapproval of the monarch’s decision to allow Pastor Adeboye to occupy the royal chair.
In a statement personally signed by the Oba, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, he acknowledged the widespread reactions and took the opportunity to extend congratulations to Christians nationwide.
The monarch explained that he wanted to address the concerns surrounding the photo and offer context to the situation.
The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon emphasised the need for understanding the cultural and contextual aspects of the incident, seeking to provide clarity on the circumstances that led to Pastor Adeboye sitting on one of the palace chairs.
“Let me set the record straight by reminding all that Pastor Adeboye was in Orile-Igbon for an evangelism programme which held on the playground of Olugbon High School. His chopper landed in an open space within the palace from where I received him to my living room.
We spent some time talking about Nigeria and Orile-Igbon before we moved to the venue of the programme where thousands of people already gathered.
“I joined the revered priest at the venue as a mark of support for the programme given that his coming to the ancient town will be a blessing to us. And he did pray for both the town and everyone that attended.
“As a mark of honour, I offered one of the ceremonial royal chairs that are usually reserved for top dignitaries to Pastor Adeboye to be used at the programme. It should be noted that the chair is not the particular one that is reserved for the Olugbon which can not be shared with anyone because of its spiritual and historical significance.
“The royal chairs are provided in palaces to honour high-ranking dignitaries, not to desecrate the throne. I, therefore, seek the understanding of all those expressing concern about the issue. There is a traditional royal chair that is meant for only the Kabiyesi, and there are traditional ceremonial chairs for very important persons. The throne of the ancient town of Orile-Igbon remains sacrosanct.”
On Christmas, Alao said, “I hereby felicitate Christians on this another occasion of celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ which is a worldwide celebration. I urge all followers of Christ in Nigeria to use this period to reflect on the multiple blessings of God, particularly the grace to be alive to witness another Christmas.
“Aside from eating and drinking to celebrate his birth, Christmas is a time to make a new commitment to ensuring that our lives mirror Christ in every way. We should make a commitment to a life of righteousness, honesty, and showing love to fellow men regardless of their faith and cultural beliefs.”
