An overzealous State Security Service operative on Friday beat up an elderly photo journalist with the Tribune newspaper, Mr. Tunde Babajide, at the installation ceremony of Iyalode, Chief Aminat Abiodun, in Ibadan.
His ordeal was to continue in the hands of an equally overzealous body guard working for an influential Muslim leader in Ibadan, who lifted him off the ground and bundled him out of the venue. The hapless photographer landed in the hands of hangers on at the occasion who mistook him for a pickpocket and dealt with him before fellow journalists came to his rescue.
In the process, his digital camera was damaged, while he landed in the hospital. The battery of television cameramen and photo journalists at the event did not fare better as they were shoved about by security men and bouncers in the course of duty.
The poorly organised sitting arrangement had several dignitaries standing throughout the duration of the brief event. The situation was compounded by the choked space at the Oja Oba palace of the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, where the ceremony was held.
The colouful ceremony was well attended by eminent personalities, senior chiefs and visitors. Addressing the gathering, the Olubadan expressed delight in installing the first chief since his ascension to the throne on August 17.
He prayed that the coming on board of the Iyalode would herald peace to the land.
Extolling the virtues of the 80-year-old 13th Iyalode, Olubadan called on the citizens of Ibadan to rally round him and the Iyalode for the peace and progress of the land.
He said, �May peace never elude Ibadan. Iyalode Abiodun is a great woman; a great leader of our time, who believes in peace. Today, she becomes the head of women in Ibadanland. May her reign bring prosperity to Ibadanland.�
Among the array of personalities at the event were two former governors of the state, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo and Alhaji Lam Adesina, as well as a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Alhaja, Sinatu Ojikutu. Others were Dr. Lekan Are, retired Justice Nurudeen Adekola, Chief Omowale Kuye; Chief Bode Akindele, Chief Bode Amao, Chief Bayo Akande and his wife, Nike. The Iyalode of Egba, Chief Alaba Lawson; and her counterpart from Osogbo, Chief Alake Kolade were also on hand to lend support to one of their own.
Oct202007