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Despite a recourse to the courts and strong objection from the Aláàfin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the Oyo State Government under the leadership of Seyi Makinde has elevated 14 High Chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to the status of crown-wearing Obas.
The governor proceeded with the elevation on Friday, marking a significant development in the state’s traditional institution. The Staffs of Office and Instruments of Office were presented on his behalf by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, during a colourful coronation ceremony held at Oliveth Heights in Oyo West Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The newly elevated monarchs are: the Alaaguo of Aguoland, Oba David Oyediran; the Baba Eyaji of Oyo, Oba Afonja Mukaila; the Alajagba of Oyo, Oba Samuel Odurinde; the Ona-Isokun of Oyo, Oba Isiaka Tella-Titiloye; the Onimileke of Imileke, Oyo, Oba Fakayode Alowonle; the Onigbudugbu of Gbudugbu, Oba Salawu Oyeniran; the Oloodu of Ojongbodu, Oba Olaniyi Adegboye; and the Alapa-Ara of Apa-Ara, Oba Tijani Ajeigbe.
Others include the Onidode of Idodeland, Oba Oyeleke Yusuff; the Iba Samu of Oyo Empire, Oba Lamidi Jimoh; the Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja Land, Oba Ganiyu Busari; the Agbaaki of Oyo, Oba Asimiyu Jimoh; the Alakeitan of Akeitan, Oba Jimoh Oyeleye; and the Elepe of Iseke, Oba Abel Oyekan.
The elevation formally recognises the monarchs as crown-wearing Obas, strengthening their traditional authority and status within the Oyo traditional system.
However, the move has generated controversy following reported legal steps and opposition from the Aláàfin, who is regarded as the paramount traditional ruler in Oyo. Observers say the development could further deepen debates over traditional hierarchy and authority in the ancient town.
The ceremony drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, political office holders and residents, with supporters describing the development as a historic step toward preserving cultural heritage and reinforcing grassroots leadership.
Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor developments surrounding the matter and provide updates as events unfold.
SB E-news.
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