In a significant development in the ongoing reforms of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, the Oyo State House of Assembly has received commendation for its decision to include the 10 beaded-crown-wearing Obas of Ibadan in the council’s composition.
The amended bill, which proposes a rotational chairmanship among the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and the Soun of Ogbomosoland, stirred controversy and led to a walkout by two lawmakers — Hon. Olorunpoto Rahman (Oyo East) and Hon. Gbenga Oyekola (Atiba) — during plenary.
Despite the dissent, many cultural stakeholders and traditional enthusiasts have praised the inclusion of the Ibadan Obas as a progressive and overdue step. Commending the Assembly, cultural promoter and Mogaji of Ejilude Alakoko Compound, Chief Ejilola Sefiu Abiodun, described the recognition as essential and timely.
“As a matter of fact, the jurisdiction that each Ibadan Oba controls is very large and wide. It is necessary to recognise them in Oyo State’s traditional settings. This is a welcome development, and I commend the Oyo State House of Assembly for taking this bold and inclusive step,” he stated.
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The amended report, presented by the Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters, and State Honours, Hon. Bamidele Adeola, also recommended removing the clause that had previously vested permanent presiding authority in the Alaafin, replacing it with a two-year rotational leadership.
While reactions remain mixed across the state, the recognition of Ibadan’s beaded-crown Obas signals a potential shift toward a more inclusive and representative traditional council — one that reflects the cultural and demographic realities of Oyo State.
This legislative action could reshape traditional governance and deepen unity among the state’s royal institutions.
