Mild drama occurred on Friday, at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, the venue for the coronation of three Ibadan chiefs as beaded crown-wearing monarchs, as dignitaries and traditional rulers began arriving ahead of the ceremony.
About 10 minutes before the scheduled commencement, royal fathers from across Oyo State trooped into the venue.
Among the early arrivals were the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao; the Aseyin of Iseyin; the Okere of Saki; and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola.
Top government officials were also present, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musbau Babatunde; Commissioners Ademola Ojo (Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters) and Wasiu Olatunbosun (Culture and Tourism); as well as the Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni. The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Iyabo Yerima, was represented by Justice O.O. Olaunji.
The arrival of some members of the Olubadan-in-Council initially stirred reactions among attendees. Those present included Oba Tajudeen Ajibola (Balogun Olubadan), Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi (Osi Olubadan), Oba Kola Adegbola, Oba Adebayo Akande (Ekerin Olubadan), Oba Isioye Dada (Osi Balogun), and Oba Eddy Oyewole (Otun Olubadan).
Upon arrival, Oba Ajibola took a seat reserved for members of the council, close to those designated for the incoming monarchs. However, the atmosphere shifted when the staff of the Olubadan’s office was brought into the venue. In a symbolic move, Oba Ajibola vacated his seat and occupied the one reserved for the Olubadan, with the staff positioned behind him, signifying the monarch’s presence by proxy.
Also in attendance were the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole; legal luminary, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN); Mogajis; and other prominent indigenes.
The arrival of the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, at about 11:25 a.m. signalled the official commencement of the event.
However, as proceedings began, the three chiefs slated for coronation—Oba Akeem Adewoyin (Ekerin Balogun), Oba Oyekola Babalola (Ekaarun Olubadan), and Oba Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli (Ekarun Balogun)—had not yet arrived.
The palace had earlier indicated that the trio would be unavailable and requested a postponement, reportedly sending formal communication to the state government.
Despite this, authorities insisted the coronation would proceed as scheduled, setting the stage for continued uncertainty around the ceremony.
