Governor Makinde Directs Immediate Coronation of Senator Alli and Two Others Amid 2027 Political Speculations

Oyo State directs the immediate coronation of Senator Sharafadeen Alli and two other chiefs to preserve Ibadan tradition amid 2027 political speculation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 27, 2026, 7:01 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from LEADERSHIP News

Urgent Chieftaincy Elevations to Preserve Tradition

The Oyo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters has issued a directive for the immediate coronation of three prominent high chiefs within the Olubadan-in-Council. In a letter dated March 26, 2026, addressed to the Olubadan, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Commissioner Ademola Ojo emphasized that the elevation of these chiefs is a mechanical necessity of Ibadan’s traditional system. The move is framed as an effort to stabilize the traditional institution and ensure that the hierarchy of the council remains intact and beyond the reach of external political maneuvers.

Political Implications for the 2027 Governorship Race

Among those listed for the conferment of beaded crowns is Sharafadeen Alli, the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District. Senator Alli had recently gained significant political momentum after being tipped as a consensus candidate by the South West leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 governorship election. Political observers suggest that the sudden government directive for his coronation may be a double-edged sword; while it solidifies his traditional standing, it forces a shift in focus from his active campaign to the requirements of his new traditional office.

Preventing Allegations of Political Interference

The state government has been vocal about its desire to prevent "unnecessary insinuations" regarding its involvement in chieftaincy affairs. By scheduling the ceremony for April 3, 2026, the administration aims to demonstrate that the elevation process is following its natural course rather than being stalled by partisan interests. The government warned that any delay in the crowning of Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, Sarafadeen Abindin Ali, and Kola Babalola could undermine the perceived integrity of the Olubadan-in-Council, particularly during a high-stakes election cycle.