Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde played no role in delaying the selection and appointment of the new Alaafin of Oyo, as he has no preferred candidate, according to the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Olusegun Olayiwola.
This clarification was made during an event at the Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium in Ode Aremo, Oyo Town, where 12 Baales were presented with Part II Recognized Chieftaincy certificates, elevating them to lesser Obas for their respective domains.
The seat of Alaafin became vacant following the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away at 82 after a 52-year reign.
The newly elevated chiefs include: Chief Olaniyi Adegboye III (Oloodu of Ojongbodu, Oyo) Chief David Oyediran (Alaguo of Aguo, Oyo) Chief Samuel Odurinde (Alajagba of Ajagba, Oyo) Chief Isiaka Titiloye (Ona Isokun of Isokun, Oyo) Chief Salawu Oyeniran (Onigudugbu of Gudugbu, Oyo) Chief Jimoh Oyeleye (Alakeetan of Akeetan, Oyo) Chief Ganiyu Busari (Alago-Oja, Oyo) Chief Abel Oyekan (Elepe of Iseke) Chief Oyeleke Isola (Onidode of Idode) Chief Tijani Okunshinde (Alapaara of Apaara 1) Chief Adebisi Adebayo (Olotefon of Otefon, Oyo) Chief Fakayode Alowonle (Onimeleke of Imeleke 1, Oyo)
These chiefs are now qualified to attend meetings of the State Council of Obas and Chiefs at the Parliament Building in the Government Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
Commissioner Olayiwola emphasized, “Governor Makinde has no anointed candidate for the Alaafin position. Oyo, being the cradle of Yoruba land with the Alaafin as the Head of Obas throughout Yorubaland, deserves an Oba who befits its historical status. The governor has no candidate.”
He added that the delay in the selection process was due to a pending case at the Appeal Court but assured that the issue would be resolved soon.
“This chieftaincy elevation is a starting point for greater heights. Today’s recognition is just the beginning of good things for your domains.
By the grace of God, some of you will be elevated to Royal Highnesses,” Olayiwola stated. “This upgrade brings honor to your communities and demonstrates our government’s support for our cultural heritage and traditional institutions.”
Governor Makinde urged the newly elevated chiefs to ensure the security of their domains and report any suspicious activities promptly to the government.
“Traditional institutions play a vital role in maintaining peace and stability in our communities. As recognized chiefs, you are expected to work closely with local and state governments to ensure that our communities are safe.
Do not allow banditry, land grabbing, or any form of terrorism in your domains,” he said.
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