Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has elevated 14 High Chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to the status of crown-wearing Obas, marking a significant development in the strengthening of traditional institutions within the state.
The coronation ceremony, held at Oliveth Heights in Oyo West Local Government Area, featured the formal presentation of Staffs of Office and Instruments of Office to the newly elevated monarchs. The presentation was carried out by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, on behalf of the governor.
The newly crowned monarchs include Oba David Oyediran, Alaaguo of Aguoland; Oba Afonja Mukaila, Baba Eyaji of Oyo; Oba Samuel Odurinde, Alajagba of Oyo; Oba Isiaka Tella-Titiloye, Ona-Isokun of Oyo; Oba Fakayode Alowonle, Onimileke of Imileke; Oba Salawu Oyeniran, Onigbudugbu of Gbudugbu; Oba Olaniyi Adegboye, Oloodu of Ojongbodu; and Oba Tijani Ajeigbe, Alapa-Ara of Apa-Ara.
Others elevated include Oba Oyeleke Yusuff, Onidode of Idodeland; Oba Lamidi Jimoh, Iba Samu of Oyo Empire; Oba Ganiyu Busari, Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja Land; Oba Asimiyu Jimoh, Agbaaki of Oyo; Oba Jimoh Oyeleye, Alakeitan of Akeitan; and Oba Abel Oyekan, Elepe of Iseke.
Speaking through his deputy, Governor Makinde described the elevation as part of his administration’s broader effort to strengthen traditional leadership structures and promote peace, stability, and grassroots development across the state. He noted that traditional rulers play a critical role in maintaining cultural values, resolving community disputes, and supporting government policies at the local level.
He congratulated the newly crowned monarchs on their elevation, describing their new status as a recognition of their leadership contributions and their importance in preserving cultural heritage. The governor urged them to uphold the values of integrity, fairness, and service to their people, emphasizing that their leadership should promote unity, peace, and inclusive development.
Makinde also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with traditional rulers to enhance community mobilisation, improve security, and support development initiatives in various parts of the state. He noted that traditional institutions remain vital partners in governance and play a significant role in fostering harmony between government and local communities.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, described the event as historic and culturally significant. He said the coronation of 14 Obas at once symbolised unity, continuity, and renewal within Oyo land, while also reinforcing the enduring relevance of the Yoruba traditional system.
He explained that the beaded crown represents not only authority but also responsibility, service, and dedication to the welfare of the people. He urged the newly crowned Obas to lead with wisdom, compassion, and a strong commitment to peace and development in their respective domains.
The event attracted prominent dignitaries, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, who was represented at the ceremony, as well as former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, lawmakers, government officials, political leaders, and respected traditional rulers.
The coronation ceremony highlighted the continued importance of traditional leadership in promoting cultural preservation, strengthening local governance, and supporting the overall development agenda of the state. The Oyo State Government reiterated its commitment to empowering traditional institutions as key partners in fostering peace, unity, and sustainable development at the grassroots level.
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