Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to blending traditional institutions with modern governance to drive sustainable development, as he presented staff and instruments of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland.
The ceremony, held at the historic Mapo Hall on Friday, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the Ibadan traditional system, with the elevation of High Chiefs to crown-wearing monarchs.
The newly crowned royal fathers include the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin; Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Oyekola Babalola (SAN); and Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli.
Represented by his deputy, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, Governor Makinde described the conferment of beaded crowns as a reflection of a dynamic tradition that evolves without losing its core values. He emphasized that the action aligns with the legal framework guiding chieftaincy matters in the state, particularly the Chiefs Law of Oyo State.
According to the governor, the elevation was necessary to prevent a vacuum within the well-structured Ibadan traditional hierarchy and to sustain the continuity and stability the institution provides.
“There are moments in the life of a people when history, culture, and governance converge to produce an enduring legacy. Today is one of such moments,” he stated, noting that the ceremony was not merely symbolic but a reaffirmation of a system that has long provided identity and order for Ibadanland.
Makinde stressed that traditional institutions remain critical partners in governance, particularly in fostering peace, security, and grassroots development. He assured that his administration would continue to strengthen collaboration with royal fathers across the state.
He further urged the newly crowned Obas to view their elevation as a call to higher responsibility, charging them to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to unity within their domains.
In his remarks, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, represented by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, commended the governor for his consistent support for the Ibadan traditional institution. He noted that the elevation aligns with established customs and enhances the dignity of the chieftaincy system.
“I want to thank the governor for what he has been doing. We are witnessing progress in the handling of chieftaincy matters, and this development is commendable,” he said.
Also speaking, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole, lauded the state government’s efforts in elevating the status of Ibadanland within the South-West and Nigeria at large.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, described the event as a landmark in the preservation of Ibadan’s cultural heritage. He noted that the ceremony underscored the government’s adherence to due process and respect for tradition.
Ojo added that the Ibadan traditional system continues to command respect across Yorubaland and that the event further strengthens the bond between government and traditional institutions.
The well-attended ceremony drew dignitaries from across the state, including political leaders, judicial officers, traditional rulers, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council.
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