In a significant development, the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has granted approval for the promotion of 11 Ibadan High Chiefs to the esteemed position of beaded crown Obas. This decision comes after the governor signed the Chieftaincy Amendment Bill into law, which empowers him to bestow beaded crowns and coronets upon chiefs in the state. The bill had been passed by the state House of Assembly.
The High Chiefs who will be elevated to the revered status of beaded crown Obas include the Balogun of Ibadanland, Owolabi Olakulehin; Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Ladoja; Otun Balogun, Tajudeen Ajibola; Osi Olubadan, Eddy Oyewole; Osi Balogun, Lateef Adebimpe; Ashipa Olubadan, Biodun Kola-Daisi; Ashipa Balogun, Kola Adegbola; Ekerin Olubadan, Hamidu Ajibade; Ekerin Balogun, Olubunmi Isioye; Ekarun Olubadan, Bayo Akande; and Ekarun Balogun, Abiodun Azeez.
A reliable source within the government, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the governor had given his consent to the promotion. The official installation of the high chiefs as traditional rulers is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 7, 2023.
The approval from the governor was based on the recommendation of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who holds the prescribed and consenting authority.
According to the source, the delay in the elevation was attributed to past administrations, including that of the late former governor, Abiola Ajimobi. While acknowledging Ajimobi’s intention to implement the promotion, it was deemed that the execution lacked proper planning and consideration. The sudden elevation of chiefs within a brief timeframe was deemed inappropriate.
The source further expressed that the current situation sometimes leads to instances where traditional rulers from other regions, holding lower positions than Ibadan High Chiefs, receive greater recognition in public events.
Consequently, the decision to promote the High Chiefs to beaded crown Obas is viewed as a positive step, and the governor’s consent has been granted accordingly. The official coronation ceremony is set to take place as per the letter sent by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Balogun, on Friday, July 7, 2023.