Just In: Makinde Inaugurates Oyo State Council of Obas as Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Emerges Pioneer Chairman

Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has officially inaugurated the Oyo State Council of Obas, marking the commencement of a new era in the administration of traditional institutions in the state, with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa1, taking the lead as the pioneer chairman.

The historic inauguration, which took place on Thursday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, follows the recent amendment of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs Law, which introduced a rotational leadership structure for the council among first-class monarchs in the state.

Under the new arrangement, Oba Rashidi Ladoja will serve as Chairman of the Council for a period of two years, after which the chairmanship will rotate among other eligible royal fathers in line with the provisions of the amended law.

Governor Makinde, while performing the inauguration, described the move as a deliberate effort to promote equity, inclusiveness, unity, and harmony among traditional rulers across the state.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions, noting that monarchs play a critical role in grassroots governance, conflict resolution, and community development. He urged members of the council to work collectively in the interest of peace, cultural preservation, and the overall progress of Oyo State.

Meanwhile, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, was noticeably absent from the inauguration ceremony. No official reason was given for his absence at the event.

It would be recalled that the Oyo State House of Assembly recently passed the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs (Further Amendments) Bill, 2025, a legislative move aimed at modernising the traditional council and ensuring balanced representation among royal institutions in the state.

The inauguration of the council is widely seen as a significant milestone in Governor Makinde’s efforts to reform traditional governance structures while fostering cooperation between the government and custodians of culture and tradition in Oyo State.