Oyo Government Proceeds with Installation of Ibadan High Chiefs as Monarchs in Absentia
The administration of Governor Seyi Makinde in Oyo State has moved forward with the installation of beaded crowns on three high chiefs in Ibadanland, despite their prior request for a postponement. This decision has ignited discussions within both traditional and public spheres, highlighting tensions between state authority and customary processes.
Installation Ceremony Held at Historic Mapo Hall
On Friday, the ceremony took place at the iconic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, where the three high chiefs—Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Adebayo Akande, and Lateef Oyelade—were installed as Obas in their absence. Their non-attendance followed an earlier communication to the Oyo State Government, conveyed through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and the palace of the Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, notifying authorities of their unavailability and requesting a deferment of the event.
Government Insists on Proceeding with Coronation
Despite the request, the state government maintained its schedule, insisting that the coronation proceed in accordance with established processes governing the Ibadan traditional system. Represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Governor Makinde emphasized that the conferment was conducted under the provisions of the Chiefs Law of Oyo State. He stressed the necessity to avoid any vacuum in the well-structured Ibadan chieftaincy hierarchy and urged the newly elevated monarchs to demonstrate wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to unity in their respective domains.
"The process is necessary to sustain the integrity of the Ibadan traditional system and ensure continuity," Governor Makinde stated, noting that traditional rulers remain critical partners in governance, peace-building, and grassroots development.
Attendance and Legitimacy of the Event
The ceremony witnessed the presence of key members of the Olubadan-in-Council, led by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, who represented the Olubadan. Their attendance provided institutional legitimacy to the event, even as the absence of the newly crowned chiefs and other notable figures drew significant attention. The turnout reflected a delicate balancing act between adherence to state authority and loyalty to traditional processes, underscoring the evolving dynamics between government oversight and customary institutions.
Palace Moves to Quell Speculation of Rift
Amid speculation of a possible rift between the state government and the Olubadan's palace, the monarch's camp moved to quell such claims, insisting that relations between Governor Makinde and Oba Rashidi Ladoja remain cordial. The palace maintained that the request for postponement by the affected chiefs was procedural and should not be interpreted as a breakdown in relations.
Cultural Significance and Security Measures
Despite the controversy, the event retained its cultural significance, with traditional rites and displays adding colour to the proceedings. Security was heightened around Mapo Hall as dignitaries, government officials, and stakeholders gathered for the occasion. Among those formally installed were Akeem Adewoyin, Oyekola Babalola, and Senator Alli, who were presented with beaded crowns and staff of office as part of their elevation within the Ibadan Traditional Council.
Commissioner Highlights Milestone in Traditional Institution
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, described the event as a milestone in the evolution of Ibadan's traditional institution. He stated that the conferment was not merely ceremonial but a reaffirmation of the state's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and upholding due process.
"Ibadanland has long been known for its unique and highly structured traditional system. This occasion strengthens that legacy and reinforces the bond between government and traditional institutions," Ojo said. He also commended Governor Makinde for his support for traditional rulers, describing them as indispensable partners in governance and development.
Addressing the newly elevated Obas, the commissioner stressed that the honour comes with increased responsibility to uphold tradition, foster unity, and contribute to development.
