The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, was notably absent on Thursday as Governor Seyi Makinde formally inaugurated the Oyo State Council of Obas. Reports confirm that the Council of Obas, a statutory body meant to unite traditional rulers and strengthen cultural governance in the state, had remained inactive for several years. Its prolonged dormancy had raised concerns among stakeholders about the role of traditional institutions in policy consultation and cultural administration within Oyo State. Findings revealed that the council did not function effectively during the administration of the immediate past governor, Abiola Ajimobi. During that period, the former governor had announced the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, as the chairman of the council, but the body reportedly failed to operate as expected. Despite renewed efforts by the current administration to revive the council, the Alaafin of Oyo did not attend the inauguration ceremony held on Thursday. As of the time this report was filed, no official explanation had been given for the monarch’s absence. However, the event proceeded with the presence of prominent traditional rulers across the state. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, was in attendance, reaffirming his leadership role within the council. Other respected monarchs present at the inauguration included the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegboola. Their participation underscored the importance of the council’s revival and its expected role in fostering unity among traditional rulers in Oyo State. The inauguration marks a significant step by the Makinde administration toward strengthening traditional governance structures, even as questions remain surrounding the Alaafin’s absence from the historic event.
