The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), has been inaugurated as Chairman of the Oyo State Traditional Council by Governor Seyi Makinde, amid the notable absence of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.
The inauguration took place on Thursday at a brief but significant ceremony held at the House of Chiefs, Agodi, Ibadan, marking a new phase in the leadership of the Oyo State Council of Obas.
It was gathered that the Oyo State House of Assembly recently amended the traditional council law to introduce a rotational chairmanship among the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Alaafin of Oyo and the Soun of Ogbomosoland.
Speaking at the event, Governor Makinde explained that each of the three foremost traditional rulers would serve as chairman for a two-year term, a move aimed at promoting unity, fairness and cooperation among traditional institutions in the state.
According to the governor, the rotational arrangement will allow the revered monarchs to collectively contribute their wealth of experience to governance and development in Oyo State.
While the event drew several traditional rulers and top government officials, the absence of the Alaafin of Oyo drew attention and sparked quiet discussions among attendees.
Many stakeholders, however, welcomed the appointment of Oba Ladoja as a positive step towards strengthening traditional institutions in the state, expressing confidence in his leadership capacity and experience.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Adebayo Lawal; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi; and the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde.
Also in attendance were the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Okere of Saki; the Olugbon of Ile-Igbon; the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Adebayo Akande; the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadan; and other prominent traditional rulers from across the state.
The development is being closely watched as stakeholders await further details and assess how the new leadership will shape the future of the Oyo State Traditional Council.
