Makinde Crowns Ibadan High Chiefs in Absentia Amidst Boycott
Last update: April 4, 2026
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Makinde elevates Chief to Kings in their absence; Ladoja, Alaafin, Soun all absent at event...
Governor Seyi Makinde has officially elevated five Ibadan High Chiefs to the status of Obas, despite their absence from the scheduled coronation ceremony. Senator Sharafadeen Alli and four other prominent High Chiefs reportedly shunned the event, leaving the Governor to perform the rites before a row of empty chairs.
The Governor’s action leans on the recently amended Oyo State Chieftaincy Law.
Under the amended law, the Governor possesses the legal prerogative to crown individuals occupying these traditional seats, regardless of their personal consent.
The government’s stance is that the traditional "seat" exists as a legal entity recognised by the state. Therefore, the elevation applies to the position itself, and by extension, whoever currently occupies it.
The event saw the elevation of High Chief Sharafadeen Alli, High Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, and High Chief Oyekola Babalola, despite their absence.
Alli was conferred with the title of Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, while Adewoyin and Babalola were installed as Ekeerin Balogun and Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, respectively.
The ceremony drew dignitaries, traditional leaders, and government officials, signalling the state's resolve to proceed as scheduled.
The development, followed an earlier communication from the Olubadan’s palace indicating that the affected chiefs had requested a deferment due to their inability to attend.
What does this mean for Senator Sharafadeen Alli?
The most significant fallout of this development involves the political future of Senator Sharafadeen Alli. By being elevated to the status of a crowned King (Oba), his eligibility for civilian political office has drastically changed:
As a recognised traditional ruler, Senator Alli is now legally barred from contesting the Oyo State Gubernatorial election.
The Ultimatum To regain eligibility for future political contests, the Senator would be required to formally resign from his traditional position and relinquish his crown.
