Coronation: Calm at Mapo Hall amid uncertainty over attendance of Ibadan chiefs
A calm atmosphere prevailed at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, on Friday as preparations continued for the coronation of three Ibadan chiefs to be elevated to beaded crown-wearing monarchs, despite lingering uncertainty
- By Yinka Adeniran, Ibadan
A calm atmosphere prevailed at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, on Friday as preparations continued for the coronation of three Ibadan chiefs to be elevated to beaded crown-wearing monarchs, despite lingering uncertainty over the attendance of key stakeholders.
As of the time of filing this report, officials of the Governor’s Protocol Unit were making final seating arrangements, while sound engineers tested equipment and decorators completed the laying of green rugs across the venue.
At the expansive Mapo Hall grounds, three large canopies had been erected on one side of the open space, with security personnel stationed around restricted areas. Banners displaying images of the state governor and the three chiefs slated for coronation were mounted prominently, while a music band fine-tuned its performance ahead of the ceremony.
Seats were reserved for top dignitaries expected at the event, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, and the chiefs to be crowned.
Security arrangements led to barricading the road from Beere Junction through Oje, limiting access to accredited vehicles. However, traders, particularly yam sellers for whom the Beere-Oje corridor is known, were seen displaying their goods and carrying on with business despite the restrictions.
However, there were indications that the three chiefs billed for the coronation might not be present. Sources disclosed that the affected chiefs had formally written to the Olubadan, notifying him of their unavailability and requesting a postponement of the ceremony.
Despite this development, the state government insisted that the event would proceed as scheduled. Observations at the venue suggested the possibility of a low turnout, as uncertainty continued to surround key figures' participation.
It also remained unclear whether the Olubadan and members of his council would attend, although sources indicated the monarch was in Ibadan as of Thursday.
Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to be represented at the ceremony by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, barring any last-minute changes. Unconfirmed reports suggested the governor was out of the state.
Earlier, the Olubadan had dismissed speculations of a rift between the palace and the state government, with his media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, clarifying the palace's position.
The statement reads in part, "The attention of His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has been drawn to trending news that there is a rift between His Excellency,t the Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Kabiyesi Olubadan.
"We wish to make it abundantly clear that there is no rift between Kabiyesi and Olori Omo Oba of Ibadanland.
"In addition, the Olubadan did not travel out of Ibadan to avoid the coronation ceremony slated for Friday, the 3rd of April.
"We wish to make it abundantly clear that Kabiyesi is hale and hearty in Ibadan, and performing the role expected of him as Olubadan.
"For the avoidance of doubt, the three concerned High Chiefs due to be coronated have formally informed the Olubadan that they would be unavailable, and have, therefore, asked for postponement.
"This information has been duly communicated to the State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters."
The development is coming on the heels of the rumour mill that the monarch may not attend the coronation ceremony that is slated for tomorrow by the state government.
The state government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftancy Matters, had scheduled the coronation ceremony for Friday, April 3rd, at Mapo Hall, Ibadan.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Matters, Demola Ojo, said, "The elevation of the three High Chiefs to the status of Obas in Ibadanland will hold on Friday at Mapo Hall."
The elevation of Senator Ali to the status of Obas is being viewed by the political pundits as an attempt to deprive him of the opportunity to contest the governorship seat of Oyo state under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, as speculated in 2027.
Recall that the government formally announced the event on Thursday amidst speculations of powerplay and interface between power, politics, and tradition.
Various insinuations surrounding the event, which the government says underscores its commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and preserving cultural heritage.
The ceremony will witness the official coronation of three distinguished traditional rulers, including Oba Akeem Adewoyin (Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland), Oba Oyekola Babalola, SAN (Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland), and Oba Sarafadeen Alli (Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland).
The presentation of the Staff of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde signifies the formal endorsement of their elevated status as beaded crown-wearing Obas within the Ibadan traditional hierarchy.
