Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has ignited a fresh controversy by claiming consultations with top traditional rulers before inaugurating the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as chairman of the newly revived Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs under a rotational system. The Alaafin’s Palace swiftly rebutted the governor’s statement, insisting no such meeting occurred with the Alaafin, Olubadan, or Soun of Ogbomoso.
Dispute Origins
The tension stems from Makinde’s announcement on January 14, 2026, at the House of Chiefs in Agodi, Ibadan, where he named Olubadan as the inaugural chairman for a two-year term in a rotation among the three paramount rulers: Olubadan, Alaafin of Oyo (Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade I), and Soun of Ogbomoso. Makinde stated he had consulted “their Imperial Majesties” and reached consensus to start with Olubadan, fulfilling a law amendment passed by the Oyo State House of Assembly in May 2025.
Palace Rebuttal
In a press release dated January 15, 2026, signed by Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, the palace categorically denied any meeting or endorsement by Oba Owoade. It clarified that the Alaafin’s stance on the council’s structure was already outlined in a memo from the Oyo Council of Elders delivered to the governor. The release positions the Alaafin as Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom and Superior Head of Yorubaland, underscoring expectations for direct involvement.
Historical Backdrop
Debates over the council’s leadership trace to 2025, when the assembly approved rotation among the trio, reversing earlier pushes for permanent Alaafin chairmanship amid opposition from Ibadan and Ogbomoso stakeholders. Groups like the AO Forum and Mogajis of Soun Ruling Houses had rejected permanent Alaafin leadership, favoring equity through rotation. The inauguration proceeded without the Alaafin’s presence, attended by other rulers like the Soun and Eleruwa of Eruwa.
Forward Implications
Olubadan Ladoja welcomed the role, pledging focus on peace, security, and development while thanking peers for unity. Makinde hailed the council as vital for governance and culture preservation. This rift highlights ongoing traditional power dynamics in Oyo, potentially testing state-monarchy relations as rotation advances.
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