The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has approved the elevation of 14 high chiefs and baales in Oyo town to the rank of crown-wearing obas.
The coronation event occurred on Friday at Oliveth Heights in the Oyo West Local Government Area, where Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal presented the staffs of office and instruments of office on behalf of the governor.
The newly crowned leaders are Oba David Oyediran, the Alaaguo of Aguoland; Oba Afonja Mukaila, Baba Eyaji of Oyo; Oba Samuel Odurinde, Alajagba of Oyo; Oba Isiaka Tella-Titiloye, Ona-Isokun of Oyo; and Oba Fakayode Alowonle, Onimileke of Imileke.
Others include Oba Salawu Oyeniran, Onigbudugbu of Gbudugbu; Oba Olaniyi Adegboye, Oloodu of Ojongbodu; Oba Tijani Ajeigbe, Alapa-Ara of Apa-Ara; and Oba Abel Oyekan, Elepe of Iseke.
In a message delivered by his deputy, Gov. Makinde emphasized that the promotion demonstrate his administration’s dedication to enhancing traditional institutions and fostering peace at the community level.
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He encouraged the new monarchs to govern with integrity, fairness, and inclusivity while supporting government initiatives in their areas.
Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, referred to the event as historic, highlighting that the beaded crown represents authority, service, and cultural duty in Yoruba culture.
However, this development occurs amidst an ongoing legal dispute, as the Alaafin of Oyo has approached the Supreme Court to seek a halt to the recognition and elevation of the Baale Ago-Oja chieftaincy until an appeal is resolved.
The case has yet to be heard.
