The absence of two of Oyo State’s most influential traditional rulers — the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Olaoye Ghandi — drew attention on Monday as the state officially kicked off activities marking its 50th anniversary.
The golden jubilee flag-off ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan, brought together a wide range of dignitaries, including relatives of past governors, political leaders, traditional rulers, religious figures, and senior government officials.
However, the conspicuously vacant seats designated for the Alaafin and the Soun quickly became a subject of discussion among attendees and observers.
Their absence comes against the backdrop of an unresolved disagreement over the leadership structure of the Oyo State Council of Obas.
Recently, Governor Seyi Makinde inaugurated the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as chairman of the council and announced a rotational chairmanship system — a departure from the long-standing arrangement in which the Alaafin held the position permanently.
While the governor stated that the new structure had the consent of both the Alaafin and the Soun, the Alaafin later publicly denied being consulted. Monday’s anniversary event was the first major state function since the controversy surfaced, further fueling speculation about growing tensions within the traditional institution.
Despite the notable absences, the celebration proceeded as planned. Governor Makinde delivered the keynote address and ceremonially cut the 50th anniversary cake, reflecting on Oyo State’s journey since its creation in 1976.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic growth, job creation, attracting investment, and ensuring inclusive development across the state. According to him, the next phase of Oyo’s history must prioritize prosperity, equity, and dignity for all residents.
Makinde also paid tribute to the late former governor, Chief Bola Ige, commending his legacy of free education and equal opportunity, which he described as foundational to the state’s development philosophy.
As part of the anniversary activities, the governor unveiled a digital tribute platform where residents shared personal stories highlighting resilience, innovation, and opportunity. He referenced one such story involving a National Youth Service Corps member who used his allowance to acquire fashion design skills during his service year, describing it as a reflection of the state’s enterprising spirit.
Earlier in the programme, the chairman of the anniversary planning committee and former member of the House of Representatives, Saheed Fijabi, described the celebration as an opportunity to honour Oyo’s past while recommitting to its future.
In his remarks, the Olubadan of Ibadan and newly appointed chairman of the Council of Obas, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, urged the state government to acknowledge lesser-known individuals and political leaders whose contributions helped shape Oyo State. He mentioned figures such as Chief Kolapo Ishola, Ahmed Gbadamosi, and Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, noting that their legacies continue to influence the state’s progress.
Observers believe the absence of both the Alaafin and the Soun at such a symbolic event may signal deepening divisions within the traditional council, particularly over the recent leadership restructuring.
Nevertheless, Governor Makinde maintained that his administration remains focused on unity, innovation, and citizen empowerment. He described the anniversary as not only a celebration of past achievements but a moment to reimagine the state’s future.
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The week-long anniversary programme continues with a public lecture, cultural displays, and an awards night ahead of the grand finale scheduled for January 27.
