The absence of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, drew attention on Thursday as the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, emerged chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs following its long-awaited inauguration by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The event, held at the House of Chiefs, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, marked the revival of the council after 15 years of inactivity.

Oba Ladoja was appointed chairman for a two-year term, in line with an earlier agreement among the three foremost traditional rulers in the state to rotate the position.

Despite being a co-chairman of the council, the Alaafin of Oyo was conspicuously absent from the inauguration ceremony, a development that sparked quiet conversations among observers.

Before inaugurating the council, Governor Makinde said its reconstitution was a necessity rather than a political achievement, stressing the central role of traditional institutions in peace, stability, and development.

He disclosed that he held consultations with the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and that all parties agreed unanimously to a rotational chairmanship arrangement.

Makinde said, “The Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs last met in 2011. For close to seven years, the easiest path would have been division, but we chose unity because our traditional institutions have supported our achievements.”

He lamented that a state known for leadership had functioned for over a decade without a properly constituted council.

“For 15 years, we operated an ad-hoc arrangement. Governance works better when traditional institutions are properly structured and strengthened,” the governor added.

Makinde also revealed that the law backing the council was passed by the State House of Assembly and signed on August 14, 2025.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, described the inauguration as proof that traditional institutions remain relevant as custodians of culture, peace, and grassroots development.

Ojo said the council’s return underscored the Makinde administration’s commitment to blending modern governance with traditional leadership.

He added that the council would serve as an advisory body on peace-building, conflict resolution, cultural preservation, policy formulation and community development.

In his remarks, Oba Ladoja assured residents that the council would focus on unity and progress rather than rivalry.

“This is the beginning of work, not a personal victory. We are here to ensure peace, security, and development across Oyo State,” he said.

According to Olubadan, the council’s success would depend on collective responsibility and cooperation for the overall good of the state.