Oyo coronation order directs Ibadan chiefs’ elevation, raising concerns over political implications for Sharafadeen Alli’s governorship bid
The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, has ordered the immediate coronation of three newly elevated high chiefs in Ibadan, a development that observers say may have implications for the governorship bid of Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District.
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The directive, conveyed in a letter dated March 26, 2026, and addressed to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, instructed that beaded crowns be conferred on the affected chiefs without delay.
The ministry, led by Commissioner Ademola Ojo, emphasised the urgency of the coronation in line with established traditional procedures.
Those listed for elevation include Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, Sarafadeen Abindin Ali, and Kola Babalola, whose promotions within the Olubadan-in-Council necessitate formal crowning under Ibadan’s traditional hierarchy.
The Oyo coronation order has drawn attention due to its timing, coming shortly after the All Progressives Congress, APC, leadership in the South West reportedly endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Alli as a consensus candidate for the upcoming Oyo State governorship election.
Political observers suggest the development could influence the dynamics around emerging alliances and local power structures.
In its communication, the ministry stressed that any delay in the coronation could lead to “unnecessary insinuations” of political interference, potentially undermining the integrity of the traditional institution in Ibadanland.
The government stated that the move was intended to uphold tradition while avoiding speculation that could politicise chieftaincy matters.
The coronation ceremony has been scheduled to take place on April 3, 2026, at Mapo Hall, a prominent historic venue in Ibadan known for hosting significant cultural and civic events.
The location underscores the ceremonial importance attached to the elevation of high chiefs within the city’s traditional framework.
The directive also forms part of a broader effort by the ministry to update records of eligible high chiefs and Baales across Ibadanland who qualify for beaded crowns, reflecting ongoing administrative and cultural alignment within the traditional system.
Analysts note that chieftaincy decisions in Ibadan often intersect with political considerations due to the influence of traditional institutions in local governance and community mobilisation.
While the government maintains that the coronation is purely administrative and cultural, the proximity of the directive to political developments has heightened scrutiny.
The Oyo coronation order highlights the delicate balance between state authority and traditional leadership structures in Oyo State, where chieftaincy matters continue to play a significant role in shaping both social order and political perception.
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As the April coronation date approaches, attention is expected to remain on how the development interacts with the broader political landscape ahead of the governorship election, particularly within the context of party strategies and local stakeholder interests.
