Oba Francis Alao, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in Oyo State has on Monday, clarified the reason behind Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, sitting on his royal palace chair during a recent event in his domain, The Global News reports.
The controversy arose when a viral photo on social media depicted Pastor Adeboye sitting on the royal chair, leading to criticism of the monarch for permitting such an action.
Oba Alao, who serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, issued a personally signed statement in response to the viral video.
He said, “My attention has been drawn to different types of reactions to a photo circulating on social media where the G.O of RCCG, Pastor Adeboye sat 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.”