Fresh political tension has emerged in Oyo State as the government schedules the coronation and beaded crown ceremony of three Ibadan High Chiefs for April 3, 2026, a move that casts uncertainty over Senator Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli’s reported 2027 governorship ambition on the platform of All Progressives Congress [APC].
The ceremony, slated for Mapo Hall, Ibadan, will formally install High Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin (Ekerin Olubadan), High Chief Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli (Ekaarun Balogun), and High Chief Kola Babalola (Ekaarun Olubadan). Alli’s inclusion has attracted particular attention, given his prominence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his purported interest in the party’s governorship ticket for 2027.
Palace sources indicated that while Adewoyin requested to be conferred with a beaded crown, Alli did not make a similar request. The revelation has intensified speculation about the timing of the ceremony and its potential political ramifications.
Under the Ibadan chieftaincy system, High Chiefs elevated to wear beaded crowns and admitted into the Olubadan-in-Council are traditionally expected to maintain political neutrality.
The convention effectively restricts active participation in partisan politics, raising questions about the impact of Alli’s coronation on his gubernatorial ambition.
The situation is further complicated by the 2024 amendment to the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law, which requires that High Chiefs must be conferred with beaded crowns to qualify for ascension to the Olubadan throne, effectively designating them as “beaded crown Obas.”
The coronation date was communicated in a letter dated March 26, 2026, addressed to Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
Signed by the Commissioner, Hon. Ademola Ojo, the letter stated that the exercise was necessary to prevent “unnecessary insinuations” that any delay in the process was deliberate or politically motivated.
The ministry emphasised that the move is consistent with established customs and is aimed at preserving the integrity of Ibadan’s traditional institution, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most structured chieftaincy systems. Arrangements are also underway to compile a list of other High Chiefs and Baales due for elevation across Ibadanland, in line with Olubadan’s earlier request.
Confirming the letter, the Olubadan’s media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, said the palace had received the communication and forwarded it to the affected traditional titleholders. “I can confirm that we received the letter a few hours ago, and it has been forwarded to the traditional leaders mentioned,” he said.
