Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has elevated 14 high chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to crown-wearing Obas, despite resistance from the Alaafin.
The coronation ceremony, held on February 13 at Oliveth Baptist High School, saw the newly installed monarchs receive their instruments of office in a symbolic consolidation of traditional authority.
Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal described the elevation as a strategic step to strengthen traditional institutions, enhance grassroots governance, and promote peace and development across communities.
He charged the new Obas to lead with integrity, fairness, and inclusiveness, emphasizing the crucial role traditional rulers play in security, unity, and community progress.
The development is widely seen as a significant shift in Oyo’s traditional power structure, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to redefining local leadership dynamics.