Makinde Declares Victory Over Chieftaincy Disputes with Ladoja’s Coronation

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced the end of longstanding disputes over Ibadan’s traditional stool, following the coronation of Rashidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Makinde made the declaration on Friday during the coronation ceremony and the presentation of the staff of office to Ladoja, describing the event as a historic milestone for Ibadan’s chieftaincy institution.

The succession process in Ibadan had been a source of tension for years, particularly after the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi promoted 11 high chiefs to obaship status. The action, later confirmed by Makinde through a chieftaincy amendment bill, triggered opposition from some chiefs, including Ladoja, who argued that the move violated the 1957 Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration, which forbids double crowning.

The disagreement escalated into a protracted legal battle, continuing well into Makinde’s tenure. The matter was finally settled when Ladoja accepted the beaded crown in August 2024.

Speaking at the coronation, Makinde said, “Today marks a historic moment for Ibadanland. The succession process is now sacrosanct, and all challenges that have long troubled our traditional institution are behind us.”

He prayed that Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace, stability, and development for Ibadanland and Oyo State. Makinde also highlighted that the ceremony coincided with the reopening of the upgraded Ladoke Akintola International Airport, which received its first international flight the presidential jet carrying President Bola Tinubu.

The coronation drew prominent political and traditional figures from across the country, symbolising a renewed commitment to Ibadan’s cultural heritage and the peaceful resolution of its succession disputes.