Makinde promotes three Ibadan high chiefs in absentia
By Adejayan Gbenga
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has elevated three high chiefs in Ibadanland to the rank of Obas despite their absence at the coronation ceremony.
The development is reportedly the first time such an action has occurred in the history of Yorubaland.
The affected chiefs — Ekeerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Akeem Adewoyin; Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Kola Babalola; and Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Sharafadeen Alli — had earlier declined invitations to attend the coronation, stating they would not be available for the ceremony.
Despite their absence, the governor, represented by his deputy, Adebayo Lawal, officially pronounced the three chiefs as Obas during the ceremony held on Friday.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, was also absent at the event but was represented by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola.
Addressing the newly crowned monarchs, Lawal delivered a traditional congratulatory remark in Yoruba to acknowledge their elevation.
The event was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Eddy Oyewole-Foko; Osi Olubadan, Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Ekeerin Olubadan, Adebayo Akande; Chief Nureni Akanbi; Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; Araba of Ibadanland, Ifalere Adegbola; and former Minister of Trade and Industry, Onikepo Akande.
Other attendees included a member of the House of Representatives representing Ibarapa North/Ibarapa Central, Adebayo Adepoju; Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun; and President-General of the Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole.
