### Oyo State's Traditional Leadership Reshuffled: Olubadan Takes Charge Amid Controversy Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially inaugurated the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, appointing the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as its chairman. This marks the first time the council has been active in 15 years, a period during which it had become largely ineffective. The inauguration has sparked controversy, particularly with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, who has publicly refuted claims of prior consultation regarding the appointment [https://punchng.com/alaafin-kicks-as-makinde-installs-ladoja-chairman-of-obas-council][https://daylightng.com/oyo-alaafin-fumes-as-makinde-installs-ladoja-chairman-of-obas-council]. ### Structure of the Inauguration and Reactions 1. **Inauguration Details**: - Governor Makinde inaugurated the council on January 15, 2026, at the House of Chiefs in Agodi, Ibadan, with Ladoja appointed for a two-year term [https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/15/alaafin-absent-as-makinde-inaugurates-council-of-obas-in-oyo-photos]. - The chairmanship is set to rotate among the Olubadan, Alaafin, and Soun of Ogbomoso, ensuring a collaborative leadership structure [https://pmexpressng.com/alaafin-absent-as-makinde-inaugurates-olubadan-as-new-chairman-oyo-council-of-obas]. 2. **Alaafin's Absence and Response**: - The Alaafin was notably absent during the inauguration, which has raised eyebrows and led to his public discontent regarding the process [https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/15/alaafin-absent-as-makinde-inaugurates-council-of-obas-in-oyo-photos]. - He has denied any agreement or consultation prior to the decision, indicating a potential rift in traditional leadership dynamics [https://empowerednewswire.org/makinde-inaugurates-oyo-obas-council-as-alaafin-rejects-consultation-claim]. 3. **Historical Context**: - The Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs had been inactive for 15 years, with the previous administration failing to revitalize it [https://guardian.ng/news/makinde-revives-oyo-council-of-obas-as-olubadan-begins-two-year-term]. - The revival is seen as a significant step towards restoring traditional governance in the state [https://blueprint.ng/makinde-inaugurates-olubadan-chairman-oyo-traditional-council]. ### Evidence of Leadership Changes and Community Impact - **Council Composition**: The newly formed council includes various traditional rulers, with Ladoja's leadership expected to bring renewed focus on community issues and traditional governance [https://thelagostimes.com.ng/olubadan-takes-helm-as-oyo-obas-council-chairman]. - **Public Sentiment**: The community's response has been mixed, with some expressing hope for improved traditional governance, while others are concerned about the implications of the Alaafin's discontent [https://naijaonpoint.com.ng/alaafin-absent-as-gov-makinde-inaugurates-olubadan-as-obas-council-chairman]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for Oyo's Traditional Leadership In summary, the inauguration of the Oyo State Council of Obas and the appointment of Olubadan Ladoja as chairman signify a pivotal moment in Oyo's traditional governance. However, the absence and objections from the Alaafin highlight underlying tensions that could affect the council's effectiveness. 1. **Leadership Transition**: The council's revival after 15 years is a significant development for traditional governance in Oyo State. 2. **Controversy and Tension**: The Alaafin's absence and rejection of the process indicate potential challenges ahead for the newly formed council. 3. **Future Implications**: The effectiveness of the council under Ladoja's leadership will depend on addressing these tensions and fostering collaboration among traditional leaders. The situation remains dynamic, and the community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold [https://naijaonpoint.com.ng/just-in-olubadan-alaafin-meet-as-makinde-inaugurates-oyo-state-council-of-obas].