Governor Seyi Makinde Presents Staff of Office to Newly Elevated Obas in Ibadanland Despite Chiefs Absence

Oyo State is set for a significant traditional event today as Governor Seyi Makinde formally presents staff of office to newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland.

The announcement came from Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, who confirmed that the ceremony would take place at the historic Mapo Hall at 10 a.m.

The elevated monarchs include Senator Sharafadeen Alli, promoted to Ekarun Balogun, Bolaji Adewoyin to Ekerin Balogun, and Kola Babalola to Ekarun Olubadan.

With this promotion, the three high chiefs ascend to Obaship status, attaining elevated rank within the state traditional council.

Preparations Marred by Absences

Despite official announcements, reports from family compounds and town sources suggest that preparations for the ceremony are minimal.

Investigations reveal that the three promoted high chiefs will be conspicuously absent from the event.

One high chief present in Ibadan stated he would not attend.

Sources cited logistical and personal reasons: one chief is overseas for medical treatment, another is on a national assignment in Abuja, and a third has commitments elsewhere.

These absences have raised questions about the timing and planning of the coronation.

Political Undertones and Controversy

The boycott by the chiefs is also linked to political undertones.

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Senator Alli, in particular, is reported to be at the center of controversy as a potential consensus candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 Oyo State governorship election.

Some sources indicate that the short notice given by the government for the coronation partly fueled the chiefs’ decision to remain absent.

Government’s Position

Despite the reported absences, the state government insists the coronation will proceed as planned.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, emphasized that the ceremony’s announcements on air confirm the event will hold.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, also clarified his position, stating that he returned from Lagos and that there is no rift between himself and Governor Makinde.

He confirmed that the absence of the chiefs is due to their personal schedules and not any conflict with the government.

Makinde’s Record in Chieftaincy Installations

The ceremony is part of Governor Makinde’s broader effort to strengthen traditional institutions.

Since 2019, Makinde has installed 12 kings and over 40 Baales, a feat described as unprecedented in Oyo State history.

The current event highlights the administration’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage.

Impact and Consequences

The absence of the promoted Obas could affect the perceived legitimacy and smooth execution of traditional protocols.

It also underscores the intersection of politics and chieftaincy matters in Oyo State, potentially raising tensions among stakeholders.

Public perception may be influenced by how the government and Olubadan manage communications around the event.

What’s Next?

The state government may reschedule a follow-up ceremony to formally install the absent chiefs once their schedules allow.

Meanwhile, attention is likely to remain on the political implications of the boycott, particularly regarding Senator Alli’s future governorship ambitions.

Summary

Governor Seyi Makinde is set to present staff of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland, despite their absence due to personal and political reasons.

The event reflects Makinde’s ongoing commitment to reinforcing traditional structures but also highlights challenges at the intersection of politics and cultural heritage.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Governor Seyi Makinde to present staff of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland.
• Senator Sharafadeen Alli promoted to Ekarun Balogun; Bolaji Adewoyin to Ekerin Balogun; Kola Babalola to Ekarun Olubadan.
• Absences reported: one chief overseas for medical treatment, one on national duty, another reportedly not in town.
• Boycott linked partly to short notice and political undertones related to Senator Alli’s potential 2027 governorship bid.
• Olubadan Oba Rashidi Ladoja confirms no rift with Governor Makinde; chiefs’ absence communicated officially.
• Governor Makinde has installed 12 kings and over 40 Baales since 2019, strengthening traditional institutions.
• Public and political attention likely to focus on follow-up ceremonies and implications for local politics.
• Event underscores the delicate balance between cultural tradition and political interests in Oyo State.