Makinde to presents staff, instrument of office to crown-wearing Obas in Ibadanland
The Oyo state government will on Friday present beaded-crown, staff and instrument of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland. The government on Thursday formally announced the event amid
- From Yinka Adeniran and Segun Showunmi, Ibadan
The Oyo state government will on Friday present beaded-crown, staff and instrument of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland.
The government on Thursday formally announced the event amid speculations of powerplay and interface between power, politics and tradition.
There are various insinuations surrounding the event which the government said underscores its commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and preserving cultural heritage.
The event, which is scheduled to hold at the historic Mapo hall grounds, Ibadan.
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), 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.
As at the time of this report, it remains unclear if the governor will be physically present at the event.
An unconfirmed source also indicated that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja may not be at the event, as he was said to have traveled out of the state. The report could not be confirmed from any source close to the palace, as at the time of this report.
The Nation reports that governor Makinde has installed 12 kings and over 40 Baales since 2019, a feat that is unequalled in the history of Chieftaincy installation in the state.
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Dignitaries from across the country, including traditional rulers, government officials, and members of the public, are expected to attend the event.
According to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Demola Ojo, the state government reaffirms its dedication to promoting unity, cultural pride, and inclusive development through sustained collaboration with traditional authorities.
When The Nation visited the Mapo venue, it was observed that the event is billed to hold outside the hall, as canopies were already mounted around the premises of the hall with chairs.
Chairs and tables were also seen dedicated for dignitaries expected at the event.
Also, roads leading to the hall were not blocked and businesses around the area is going on as usual.
The Nation also observed increased security patrol around the axis.
