Two of Oyo State’s top monarchs, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Olaoye Ghandi, were notably absent at the official launch of the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations on Monday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, drew former governors’ families, traditional rulers, political leaders, religious figures, and senior government officials.

However, the empty seats reserved for the Alaafin and Soun sparked reactions, particularly amid ongoing debates over the rotational leadership of the Oyo State Council of Obas.

Governor Seyi Makinde had recently inaugurated the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as council chairman and introduced a new rotational leadership system, which previously saw the Alaafin hold the position permanently. While Makinde claimed the arrangement had the support of both monarchs, the Alaafin denied any involvement in such discussions, making Monday’s event the first major state function since the controversy.

Makinde Marks Anniversary with Keynote, Cake Cutting
Despite the absence of the two traditional rulers, the celebration went on, with Governor Makinde delivering a keynote address and cutting the state’s golden jubilee cake.

He highlighted his administration’s priorities, including economic transformation, job creation, attracting investment, and promoting inclusive development.

“The next 50 years must bring greater prosperity, fairness, dignity, and hope for all our citizens,” Makinde said.

The governor also paid tribute to former Governor Bola Ige, noting his commitment to free education and equal opportunity, which shaped Oyo State’s governance philosophy. Additionally, Makinde unveiled a digital tribute platform, showcasing residents’ stories of resilience, enterprise, and opportunity.

“These are not just tributes—they are evidence of hope, enterprise, and belonging,” he added, citing a youth corps member who invested his NYSC allowance in fashion design training.

Reflections on Legacy and Statebuilding
Saheed Fijabi, chairman of the anniversary planning committee and former House of Reps member, stressed the importance of celebrating Oyo’s past while committing to its future.

Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Olubadan of Ibadan and newly appointed council chairman, urged the government to honour unsung heroes and past leaders, including Chief Kolapo Ishola, Ahmed Gbadamosi, and Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, whose contributions remain vital to the state’s development.

Naija News reports that the absence of both the Alaafin and Soun may signal lingering tensions within the traditional council, likely linked to Makinde’s restructuring of its leadership.

Nonetheless, Makinde reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, citizen empowerment, and innovation.

“This is not just a celebration of our past, but a reimagining of our future,” he said.

The week-long golden jubilee programme continues, featuring a public lecture, cultural exhibitions, and awards night, culminating in a grand finale on January 27.