A major constitutional and traditional crisis is unfolding in Oyo State as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has reportedly taken a firm and defiant position against the state government, directing a boycott of the coronation ceremony of three prominent Ibadan High Chiefs.
In a dramatic twist, credible palace sources confirm that the monarch has also left Ibadan for Lagos, a move widely interpreted as a strong signal of his resolve amid the escalating standoff.
Sources indicate that the Olubadan is prepared for a direct confrontation with the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, signaling his intention to stay away from the ceremony and urging the affected chiefs to do the same — a development that has significantly heightened tension within both the traditional institution and the political space.
At the centre of the crisis are three senior chiefs — High Chief Kola Babalola (Ekaarun Olubadan), High Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin (Ekerin Balogun), and High Chief (Senator) Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli (Ekaarun Balogun) — who are reportedly set to boycott the coronation scheduled for Friday, April 3, 2026, in defiance of the Oyo State Government’s directive.
Insiders reveal that the boycott is partly aimed at shielding Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who is said to be at the centre of the controversy surrounding the coronation and its political undertones.
More revealing, a highly placed source disclosed that the Olubadan, himself a former governor, is fully aware of the powers vested in an Executive Governor and believes that the current political configuration in the state could shift significantly in the near future.
The development has effectively drawn a clear battle line between the Olubadan and Governor Makinde’s administration, raising concerns about a potential and unprecedented clash between traditional authority and state power.
Observers warn that the standoff could severely strain relations between both institutions, with far-reaching implications for governance, political stability, and the delicate balance of authority in Oyo State.
Analysts further caution that the growing overlap between politics and traditional leadership particularly the perceived involvement of the Olubadan in political alignments may heighten tensions and trigger wider instability if not carefully managed.
As of press time, neither the Oyo State Government nor the Olubadan Palace has issued an official statement confirming or denying the development, further fueling speculation and anxiety across the state.