Makinde Champions Tradition–Governance Synergy, Crowns Senator Alli, Two Others as Ibadan Obas in Absentia
Makinde Champions Tradition–Governance Synergy, Crowns Senator Alli, Two Others as Ibadan Obas in Absentia
Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has presented the staff and instruments of office to three newly crowned royal fathers in Ibadanland, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring that tradition and modern governance work together to deliver meaningful progress across the state.
The governor made this known on Friday during the ceremony held at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan, noting that the elevation of the High Chiefs and their conferment with beaded crowns reflect a tradition that continues to evolve without losing its core essence.
The newly elevated monarchs are the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin; the Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Oyekola Babalola, SAN; and the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, stated that the conferment of beaded crowns on the High Chiefs underscores the administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law while preserving the dignity and relevance of traditional institutions.
He emphasized that the approval for the conferment was anchored in the Chiefs Law of Oyo State and guided by the established customs of Ibadanland.
The governor explained that the elevation became necessary to prevent any vacuum or distortion within the well-structured Ibadan traditional system, adding that traditional institutions remain vital pillars of society by providing continuity, stability, and a sense of identity.
He congratulated the newly crowned Obas and assured them of continued collaboration between the government and traditional rulers in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development across the state.
“There are moments in the life of people when history, culture, and governance converge to produce an enduring legacy. Today is one of such moments.
“We are not merely gathered to witness a ceremonial rite; we are here to affirm a system that has, for generations, provided structure, order, and identity to Ibadanland. The elevation of these High Chiefs and their subsequent conferment with beaded crowns speak to a tradition that evolves without losing its essence.
“Today marks a defining moment in the evolution of the Ibadan traditional institution and indeed, in the cultural history of Oyo State.
“This ceremony represents a deliberate affirmation of our commitment as a government to uphold the rule of law while preserving the dignity and relevance of our traditional institutions.
“The traditional institution remains a vital pillar of our society, providing continuity, stability, and a sense of identity for our people.”
The governor urged the new Obas to view their elevation as a call to higher responsibility, stressing the need for wisdom, integrity, and unity in their leadership.
“To the newly crowned Obas, this honour is both symbolic and demanding. It places upon you a higher obligation to lead with wisdom, demonstrate integrity, and serve as custodians of unity within your respective domains.”
In his remarks, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rashidi Ladoja, represented by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, appreciated the governor for his efforts in strengthening the Ibadan traditional institution and described the development as commendable.
He noted that the elevation aligns with the established Ibadan chieftaincy system and enhances its dignity.
Also speaking, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole, commended the governor for his role in advancing the status of Ibadanland.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, described the event as a significant milestone in the history of the Ibadan traditional institution, noting that it reflects the government’s commitment to due process and cultural preservation.
He added that the Ibadan traditional system commands respect across Yorubaland and that the occasion further strengthens the bond between the government and traditional institutions.
Dignitaries at the event included Hon. (Dr) Anthony Adebayo Adepoju; Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande; Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented by Hon. Justice O.O. Olatunji); Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni; Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; Chief Saka Balogun; Elder Wole Oyelese; members of the Olubadan-in-Council; and several traditional rulers and political leaders across the state.
The ceremony further reinforced the enduring relevance of the traditional institution as a partner in governance, peacebuilding, and grassroots development in Oyo State.