Oba Lekan Balogun, Olubadan of Ibadanland, has downplayed the alleged clash between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and some Yoruba monarchs in Iseyin, Oyo State.

The Olubadan said contrary to the views expressed by many, Obasanjo was a respecter of tradition and  did not  rubbished the Yoruba traditional institution.

But speaking with journalists on Tuesday at his Alarere residence in Ibadan as part of activities marking his 81st birthday celebration, the Olubadan described the encounter as unfortunate.

He stated that Obasanjo was a respecter of tradition and did not rubbish the traditional rulers.

The Olubadan said: “Obasanjo is my brother and friend. We have been together for a long time. He is not disrespectful, as being alleged. He is a respecter of traditional stools.

“What happened on the said day when Obasanjo was barking out orders at members of the Council of Obas and Chiefs at a function in Iseyin is quite unfortunate. Both sides didn’t expect the way the media turned it to.”

Meanwhile, while speaking on the issue of the selection of kings, the traditional ruler said it would always end in court because of its selection processes.

He noted that litigation would become inevitable in selecting kings these days “as long as the people who are saddled with the responsibility of electing or selecting kings are failing in their traditional function.

“Litigation is a function of democracy. It will not end as long as injustice remains in the selection of monarchs in Yorubaland. It remains a checkpoint for injustice.”