The Digest:
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has conferred beaded crowns on three Ibadan High Chiefs in absentia at a ceremony held at Mapo Hall. The governor, represented by his deputy, elevated Mobolaji Adewoyin, Oyekola Babalola (SAN), and Sarafadeen Alli to Obaship status. The Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, had notified the government that the chiefs were unavailable and requested a postponement. Makinde insisted the conferment followed due process under the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, saying it was necessary to avoid creating a vacuum.
Key Points:
- The ceremony revives tensions similar to the 2017 Ajimobi-Ladoja chieftaincy crisis.
- Sarafadeen Alli's governorship ambition suggests political undertones.
- The Olubadan's objection signals a potential rift between the throne and the government.
- Crowning chiefs in absentia has been criticised as a mockery of tradition.
- The event could lead to legal challenges or traditional council boycotts.
Watch whether the Olubadan or the affected chiefs take legal action, and if this affects Makinde's relationship with Ibadan traditional institutions.
Sources: Punch Newspapers
