Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday elevated 14 High Chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to the status of crown-wearing Obas, presenting them with Staffs and Instruments of Office at a colourful coronation ceremony in Oyo West Local Government Area.
The ceremony, held at Oliveth Heights in Oyo town, was conducted by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, who represented the governor.
Among the newly elevated monarchs are Oba David Oyediran (Alaaguo of Aguoland), Oba Afonja Mukaila (Baba Eyaji of Oyo), Oba Samuel Odurinde (Alajagba of Oyo), Oba Isiaka Tella-Titiloye (Ona-Isokun of Oyo), and Oba Ganiyu Busari (Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja Land), alongside nine others.
Strengthening Traditional Institutions
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Makinde said the elevation underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and promoting grassroots development.
“The State Government holds traditional rulers in high esteem because of their roles as custodians of culture, promoters of unity and partners in progress,” he stated.
He urged the newly crowned monarchs to lead with integrity, inclusiveness, and fairness, adding that their reigns should promote peace and support government initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, described the mass coronation as historic and culturally significant, noting that the beaded crown symbolises authority, service, and divine responsibility in Yoruba tradition.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, former Speaker Monsurat Sunmonu, lawmakers, and political leaders from across the state.
Legal Dispute Over Baale Ago-Oja Stool
However, the elevation comes amid a pending legal dispute at the Supreme Court of Nigeria concerning the Baale Ago-Oja chieftaincy.
In a motion filed under Appeal No. SC/404/2018, the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, had sought orders restraining the Oyo State Government from creating, recognising, or elevating the Baale Ago-Oja stool pending the determination of an appeal.
The motion also seeks to halt the recognition or elevation of Alhaji Ganiyu Busari and to set aside Oyo State Gazette No. 01, Vol. 50 of January 17, 2025, as it relates to the chieftaincy.
According to the filing, reviving or elevating a stool previously declared non-existent by courts could prejudice the pending appeal.
The case has yet to be fixed for hearing.
The dual developments—royal elevation and ongoing litigation—highlight the delicate intersection of tradition, governance, and judicial oversight in Oyo State.