One of the contenders for ‘Babaoloja’ of Ladipo Spare Parts Market in Mushin Local Government Area, Alhaji Oki has said that the crisis rocking the market, will not cause divisions among the different ethnic groups.Alhaji Oki, said his appointment, by the late ‘Iyaoloja General’, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, was traditionally accepted by the Yoruba, and certificate of recognition given to him, by the state and local governments. He said, the position, will not bring any war as all ethnic groups have being doing business together in the market, for the past 38 years.

According to him, the present leadership does not understand the Yoruba traditional culture, which recognises ‘Babaloja’ in any market, established and operated in Yoruba land.He described the recent protest by some traders as barbaric and lacking in understanding of the meaning of ‘Babaloja’, stressing that some of them have sued for peace.“It is very unfortunate that for the past 38 years, the Igbo and Yoruba have been doing business together, but due to my appointment, the entire market is now thrown into confusion.In fact, the crisis is a lack of patience and understanding of the position in Yoruba market structure and tradition.

As far as I am a patriotic citizen, I will continue to sue for understanding and ensure we live in peace”, he said.He attributed the recent protest to the handiwork of mischief makers trying to score cheap political point.

He said his appointment as ‘Babaloja General’ should not in any way cause confusion as, the tenet of the traditional position is practised and accepted in a Yoruba land which according to him does not infringe on the economic powers and rights any group to carry out legitimate business.

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