In a joint statement issued in Ibadan on Monday, the leaders described the move as a distortion of tradition and a threat to the unity of royal institutions in the state.
Traditional rulers and influential stakeholders from Ibadanland and Ogbomosoland have firmly rejected a legislative proposal by the Oyo State House of Assembly that seeks to make the Alaafin of Oyo the permanent chairman of the state’s Council of Obas and Chiefs.
The statement was endorsed by Mogajis, Baales, monarchs, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), the Ibadan Compounds Peace Initiative (ICPI), prominent natives of Ibadanland, and representatives of the Soun Ruling Houses in Ogbomoso.
The proposed amendment to the chieftaincy law, which passed second reading in the House last Thursday, would install the Alaafin as the permanent head of the council.
In the event of his absence, the Olubadan of Ibadanland would chair the council, followed by the Soun of Ogbomoso if both are unavailable.
But opponents argue the law undermines long-standing tradition and fairness.
The chairmanship of the council has always been rotational and should remain so to reflect equity among all royal stools in the state,” the statement read.
President of the Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, and ICPI Coordinator, Nurudeen Akinade, warned that the proposed amendment risks inflaming tensions, urging lawmakers to preserve the rotational leadership model as a symbol of inclusion and mutual respect.
They stressed their opposition was not personal, noting that the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, earned their admiration through his respectful engagement with other traditional institutions.
We respected and honoured Oba Adeyemi’s age and wisdom. He spent over 50 years on the throne without undermining Ibadan people,” they said.
The current Alaafin should tread softly.”
