Tension In Oyo As Monarchs Reject Move to Make Alaafin Permanent Council Chair
Ibadan, May 20, 2025 — Tensions are rising within the traditional institution in Oyo State as a group of monarchs has openly rejected a proposed move to make the Alaafin of Oyo the permanent chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
The controversy was sparked following reports that the Oyo State Government is considering a policy change that would grant the Alaafin the permanent leadership position over other traditional rulers in the state. The move has been met with firm resistance, particularly from prominent monarchs in Ibadan, Ogbomoso, and other parts of the state who argue that such a development undermines the principle of equality among first-class traditional rulers in the region.
In a strongly worded joint statement released over the weekend, a coalition of monarchs led by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, described the proposal as unjust and potentially destabilizing. They emphasized that the state’s traditional council must reflect a rotational leadership structure that respects the diversity and autonomy of all cultural institutions in the state.
“The traditional system in Oyo State has functioned on a rotational leadership basis for years to preserve harmony and respect among the different royal houses. Any move to permanently bestow chairmanship on a single monarch is not only unacceptable but also capable of generating avoidable conflict,” the statement read.
Analysts suggest the resistance is rooted in longstanding historical rivalries and political sensitivities between various Yoruba kingdoms. The Alaafin of Oyo is regarded as a highly respected and historically significant figure in Yoruba history, with ancestral ties to the old Oyo Empire. However, in the modern era, monarchs like the Olubadan and the Soun have gained political and cultural relevance within their respective domains.
Political observers believe the government’s proposal may have been influenced by lobbying from Oyo town elites or a broader attempt to strengthen cultural centralization. However, critics warn that such moves could create deep divisions within the traditional institution and even spill into political unrest.
The Oyo State Government has yet to make an official statement on the backlash, but insiders say the administration is weighing its options carefully. A top aide to Governor Seyi Makinde, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “The governor believes in respecting all traditional rulers equally and will not impose any policy that would disrupt the existing harmony among royal fathers.”
The source added that consultations are still ongoing and that no final decision has been made.
The controversy has stirred debate among residents and stakeholders in Oyo State. While some believe the Alaafin, as a symbol of Yoruba history, deserves the permanent chairmanship role, others argue that tradition must evolve with inclusivity and fairness.
“This is not about disrespecting the Alaafin. It’s about ensuring that every part of Oyo State feels represented and respected,” said Professor Akin Oyelade, a historian at the University of Ibadan. “Fixing leadership in one palace contradicts the democratic spirit of our traditional institutions.”
As the debate continues, all eyes are on the state government to resolve the matter diplomatically and prevent a full-blown crisis within one of Nigeria’s most culturally rich regions
Do you think making one monarch a permanent chairman undermines the authority of others in the council?
What do you think would be a fair solution to avoid future conflict among the monarchs?
Like Our Story ? Donate to Support Us, Click Here
You want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity/live coverage for product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +16477721660 or email Adebaconnector@gmail.com
