The Oyo State Government on Friday proceeded with the coronation of selected high chiefs in Ibadan, despite the absence of three prominent chiefs who had earlier informed the authorities of their inability to attend and requested a postponement of the ceremony.
The event, held at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan, attracted dignitaries, traditional leaders, and top government officials, underscoring the state’s determination to maintain the scheduled programme. �
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Among those absent were Sharafadeen Alli, Adebayo Akande, and Lateef Oyelade, who had formally communicated their unavailability through the Olubadan’s palace. According to the palace, the request for a deferment was duly forwarded to the state government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters. �
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Despite the notice, the government insisted that the coronation should go on as planned, reaffirming its commitment to preserving the continuity of traditional administrative processes in Ibadanland. �
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Present at the ceremony were members of the Olubadan-in-Council, led by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Jajudeen Ajibola, who represented the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja. Their presence gave official traditional backing to the proceedings, even as the absence of several high-profile figures drew public attention.
Also notably absent was the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, whose non-attendance further heightened interest surrounding the event.
Observers described the turnout as a reflection of both loyalty to traditional authority and adherence to government directives, highlighting the delicate relationship between customary institutions and state oversight in chieftaincy matters.
Meanwhile, the Olubadan’s palace had earlier dismissed rumours of any disagreement between the monarch and the Oyo State Government, stating that Governor Seyi Makinde and the Olubadan remain on cordial terms. �
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Oyo Government Proceeds with Ibadan High Chiefs’ Coronation Despite Absence of Key Figures
