Governor Makinde Appoints Olubadan as Chair of Oyo Traditional Council

Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, has received his appointment as the Chairman of the Oyo State Traditional Council of Obas and Chiefs. This position comes as part of a newly established rotational system.

Governor Seyi Makinde made this announcement on Thursday during the inauguration event for the reformed council, which took place at the House of Chiefs in Agodi, Ibadan.

The governor shared that the leadership of the council will alternate among key traditional rulers, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Soun of Ogbomoso, and the Alaafin of Oyo, with each monarch expected to hold the position for a duration of two years.

"Following discussions with their Imperial Majesties, we decided to initiate the rotational system with the Olubadan as Chairman. Thus, the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs has been inaugurated with the Olubadan in this role," stated Makinde.

This announcement brings to a conclusion months of discussions and uncertainty surrounding the governance framework of the traditional council, which plays a vital role as the primary advisory body of traditional leadership to the state government.

The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of notable monarchs from across the region, such as the Soun of Ogbomoso, the Eleruwa of Eruwa, the Aseyin of Iseyin, and the Okere of Saki, among other first-class traditional leaders.

Governor Makinde reiterated his administration's commitment to enhancing traditional institutions, recognizing them as essential partners in governance, community engagement, and development. He emphasized that these royal figures serve as crucial guardians of culture and stability, playing an integral role in fostering security and social harmony throughout the state.

During the ceremony, Oba Ladoja expressed his gratitude to the governor for the revitalization of the State Traditional Council and restoring its full functionality. He also acknowledged support from his fellow monarchs, highlighting that the new leadership structure signifies a united effort towards peace and collaboration.

"We thank the governor for reviving the traditional council and enabling us to collaborate for the advancement of our people. I extend my appreciation to my fellow royal leaders for their camaraderie and support," Olubadan Ladoja remarked.

In discussions with reporters after the event, Oba Ladoja articulated that his primary focus as the head of the Oyo State Traditional Council will center on fostering peace, security, and progress throughout the state.

"Our emphasis will be on advancing peace, security, and development in all aspects of the state. As traditional rulers, we maintain close ties with our communities, and we will cooperate with the government to ensure stability and progress within our regions," he stated.

He also assured that the council would act as a platform for proactive engagement with the state government concerning issues impacting the welfare of the populace.

Additionally, he mentioned that this arrangement is set to nurture fairness, mutual regard, and a sense of collective ownership among the prominent royal houses in the region.