Makinde approves promotion of 11 Ibadan High Chiefs

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has granted approval for the promotion of 11 Ibadan High Chiefs to the position of beaded crown Obas.

According to a report by The PUNCH, the governor recently enacted the Chieftaincy Amendment Bill, which empowers him to independently confer beaded crowns and coronets upon chiefs in the state, following its passage by the state House of Assembly.

The elevated High Chiefs include Owolabi Olakulehin, who assumes the position of Balogun of Ibadanland; Rasheed Ladoja, now Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland; Tajudeen Ajibola, appointed as Otun Balogun; Eddy Oyewole, taking the role of Osi Olubadan; Lateef Adebimpe, now Osi Balogun; Biodun Kola-Daisi, assuming the position of Ashipa Olubadan; Kola Adegbola, appointed as Ashipa Balogun; Hamidu Ajibade, now Ekerin Olubadan; Olubunmi Isioye, assuming the role of Ekerin Balogun; Bayo Akande, now Ekarun Olubadan; and Abiodun Azeez, appointed as Ekarun Balogun.

A reliable government source, who did not want his name mentioned, disclosed that the governor has granted his consent to the promotions, and the high chiefs will be officially installed as traditional rulers on Friday, July 7, 2023.

The decision to approve the promotions was reportedly based on the recommendation of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who is the designated authority for such matters.

“This elevation could have taken place earlier, even during the tenure of the late former governor, Abiola Ajimobi. Ajimobi had good intentions regarding this promotion, but the approach was flawed. It is not appropriate to make such significant decisions within a span of just three days or so,” The PUNCH quoted a source.

“It is surprising to witness certain Obas from other regions, who hold lower positions than the High Chiefs of Ibadanland, parading with large entourages in public.

“Unfortunately, our High Chiefs have often been regarded as mere chiefs. Hence, this is a commendable decision, and the governor has granted his consent accordingly.

“The official coronation of the newly promoted Obas is scheduled for Friday, July 7, 2023, as stated in a letter sent to the governor by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Balogun.”