KEY POINTS

• Governor Makinde elevated 14 Oyo chiefs and Baales to crown-wearing Obas to strengthen traditional institutions.
• The government says traditional rulers remain crucial partners in grassroots development, unity, and security.
• Officials described the mass coronation as historic, symbolising cultural continuity and renewed traditional authority.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde formally elevated 14 high chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to the status of crown-wearing Obas, describing the move as a strategic step toward strengthening grassroots governance and preserving Yoruba tradition.

The coronation ceremony, held at Oliveth Heights in Oyo, was conducted on the governor’s behalf by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, who presented staffs and official instruments of office to the newly recognised monarchs.

Makinde said the elevation reflects his administration’s commitment to reinforcing traditional authority structures as partners in peacebuilding, development, and conflict resolution.

He emphasized that royal fathers remain custodians of culture, promoters of unity, and vital allies in implementing government programmes at the community level.

Makinde urged the monarchs to lead with fairness, integrity, and inclusiveness, stressing that their positions demand service, accountability, and dedication to the welfare of their people.

Commissioner describes event as culturally historic

In his welcome remarks, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, called the occasion a milestone in Oyo’s cultural history.

According to him, the installation of multiple Obas at once symbolises continuity, renewal, and unity within Yoruba traditional structures.

He noted that the beaded crown is not merely ceremonial but represents sacred authority and a divine responsibility to lead with courage and compassion.

Ojo also praised the governor for sponsoring the programme and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to collaborating with traditional rulers on cultural preservation and grassroots mobilisation.

Among those elevated by Makinde were 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 include Oba Oyeleke Yusuff (Onidode of Idodeland), Oba Lamidi Jimoh (Iba Samu of Oyo Empire), Oba Ganiyu Busari (Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja), Oba Jimoh Oyeleye (Alakeitan of Akeitan), Oba Abel Oyekan (Elepe of Iseke), and Oba Asimiyu Jimoh (Agbaakin of Oyo).