The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has launched a scathing attack on Governor Seyi Makinde, accusing him of ridiculing the revered Yoruba traditional institution over the recent elevation of three Ibadan high chiefs to Oba status.
The controversy follows Friday’s coronation ceremony, where High Chiefs Akeem Adewoyin, Kola Babalola, and Sharafadeen Alli were officially installed as Obas by the state government.
Sharafadeen Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District, is also a gubernatorial aspirant under the APC platform.
However, the ceremony was overshadowed by the conspicuous absence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, alongside the newly crowned Obas and several prominent Ibadan indigenes.
Reacting in a strongly worded statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Sadare, the APC described the exercise as a “charade” and an affront to Yoruba customs and traditions.
The party alleged that Governor Makinde “installed photographs and empty chairs as Obas,” branding the move as a disgraceful act with no cultural or moral justification.
“Governor Makinde has written a bad page for himself in the history of Oyo State. This is a shameful mockery of a sacred institution,” the statement read.
The APC further claimed that the governor’s actions were consistent with what it described as his “lack of regard” for established norms, adding that the development raises concerns about respect for traditional authority in the state.
The state government has yet to issue an official response to the allegations as tensions continue to build around the controversial coronation.
