There are strong indications that the planned coronation of three Ibadan High Chiefs to the status of beaded-crown wearing Obas may not go on as earlier scheduled, following a formal request for postponement by the chiefs involved.
The development has generated widespread discussion across Ibadanland, particularly as it comes amid speculations of a possible rift between the Olubadan Palace and the Oyo State Government. However, the Olubadan has dismissed such claims, insisting that there is no disagreement between the palace and the state authorities.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Media Aide to the Olubadan, Chief Adeola Oloko, the three High Chiefs due for coronation had formally written to inform the Olubadan that they would be unavailable on the scheduled date and had therefore requested that the ceremony be postponed.
The statement was issued on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who clarified that the postponement request was purely based on the personal circumstances of the chiefs and not due to any political disagreement or conflict involving the palace.
The palace also used the opportunity to debunk widespread insinuations that there was a rift between the Olubadan and the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. The statement emphasized that the relationship between the traditional institution and the state government remains cordial and cooperative.
“The attention of His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, has been drawn to trending news that there is a rift between His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, and Kabiyesi Olubadan,” the statement read in part, adding that such reports were inaccurate and misleading.
The palace explained that the process of elevating High Chiefs to beaded-crown Obas is part of the long-standing chieftaincy system in Ibadanland, which has evolved over time to recognize senior chiefs with additional traditional responsibilities while preserving the unique succession system of the Olubadan stool.
Observers say the beaded-crown system in Ibadanland has historically been a sensitive issue, often generating debate among traditional title holders, kingmakers, and the wider Ibadan community. The elevation of High Chiefs to Oba status does not make them equal to the Olubadan but recognizes their seniority and importance within the traditional hierarchy.
The three High Chiefs involved in the planned coronation are among the most senior members of the Olubadan-in-Council, and their elevation is seen as part of efforts to strengthen traditional administration and bring governance closer to the people at the local level.
Sources within the palace indicated that a new date for the coronation would be announced after consultations with all parties involved, including the state government, the Olubadan-in-Council, and other stakeholders in Ibadanland.
Meanwhile, cultural historians note that Ibadan’s traditional system is unique compared to many other Yoruba towns because of its well-structured and predictable succession line to the Olubadan throne, which rotates between two lines—the civil line and the military line.
The palace urged the public to disregard rumours of conflict, stressing that the postponement should not be politicized or misinterpreted as a sign of crisis within the traditional institution.
As anticipation continues to build around the coronation, many residents of Ibadanland are expected to await the announcement of a new date, as the elevation of High Chiefs to beaded-crown Obas remains a significant cultural and traditional event in Oyo State.
The development once again highlights the important role traditional institutions continue to play in governance, culture, and community leadership, particularly in Yoruba land where royal institutions remain highly respected and influential.
