A dramatic scene unfolded in Ibadan as the Oyo State Government conferred Obaship titles on three high-ranking chiefs despite their absence at the ceremony held at Mapo Hall.
Those elevated include Sharafadeen Alli, now Ekarun Balogun; Oba Oyekola Babalola, installed as Ekarun Olubadan; and Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin, named Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland.
Their absence has fuelled speculation of political undertones ahead of the 2027 elections.Governor Seyi Makinde defended the move, describing it as a lawful step to preserve Ibadan’s traditional structure and prevent institutional gaps.
However, constitutional lawyer Adebisi Adeyemo insisted that chieftaincy status cannot bar individuals from contesting elections, stressing that the Constitution guarantees political participation.
He warned that any attempt to restrict such rights remains “null and void” under Nigerian law.
