New Era Begins in Oyo Traditional Council as Makinde Inaugurates Olubadan as Chairman of Oyo Council of Obas, Alaafin Misses Inauguration
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, has inaugurated the Oyo State Council of Obas, ushering in a new phase in the administration of traditional institutions, with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, emerging as the pioneer chairman under a newly amended legal framework.
OTN News further reports as gathered that the historic ceremony took place on Thursday in Ibadan, the state capital, following the recent amendment of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs Law.
OTN News observes from the information gathered that the amendment, which introduced a rotational chairmanship among first-class monarchs in the state, aimed at ensuring fairness and balanced representation within the traditional council.
Under the new arrangement, Oba Rashidi Ladoja is to serve as chairman of the council for a two-year term, after which the leadership will rotate among other eligible royal fathers in accordance with the provisions of the amended law.
In his remarks at the event, Governor Makinde described the inauguration as a deliberate step by his administration to promote equity, inclusiveness, unity and harmony among traditional rulers across Oyo State.
He reiterated the importance of traditional institutions in governance, stressing that monarchs remain vital partners in grassroots administration, conflict resolution and community development.
The governor urged members of the council to work together in the collective interest of peace, cultural preservation and the overall development of the state, assuring them of his government’s continued support in strengthening traditional institutions.
However, the event was marked by the notable absence of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.
OTN News further observes from that information gathered that, no official explanation was given for the monarch’s absence at the inauguration, which attracts wide attention given the Alaafin’s historical and cultural significance in the state.
OTN News leant that the inauguration follows the recent passage of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs (Further Amendments) Bill, 2025, by the Oyo State House of Assembly.
The legislation was designed to modernise the traditional council, enhance cooperation among royal institutions and ensure a more inclusive leadership structure.
However, observers described the inauguration of the council as a significant milestone in Governor Makinde’s broader efforts to reform traditional governance structures, deepen collaboration between government and traditional rulers, and strengthen the role of cultural institutions in the socio-political development of Oyo State.
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