Ibadan Indigenes Endorse Rotational Chairmanship of Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs

Strategic Insights -

The Oyo State House of Assembly's passage of the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law (Further Amendment) 2025, making the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs rotational, has been hailed by Ibadan indigenes. The decision was taken after heated debates, with 30 out of 32 lawmakers supporting the rotational system. The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, praised the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly for its decision, citing it as a step towards justice and equity. The assembly initially proposed making the Alaafin permanent chairman, but this was challenged in court and led to the adoption of a rotational system introduced by former Governor Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala in 2011. The Oyo State Chieftaincy Law 2000 designated the Alaafin as permanent chairman, but this amendment was challenged.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a bill making the chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs rotational.
  • 30 out of 32 lawmakers supported the bill, with two walking out in protest.
  • The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has endorsed the decision, calling it a step towards justice and equity.
  • The rotational system was introduced by former Governor Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala in 2011.
  • The Oyo State Chieftaincy Law 2000 designated the Alaafin as permanent chairman, but this amendment was challenged in court.
  • The state has lacked a functioning council of obas for 14 years.
  • The CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, renewed his call for the creation of Ibadan State, citing its unique identity and population.
  • Ajewole thanked the lawmakers and Speaker for their decision and Governor Seyi Makinde for allowing the Assembly to work independently.

Statistics:

  • 30 out of 32 lawmakers supported the bill.
  • 2 lawmakers walked out in protest.
  • 14 years have passed without a functioning council of obas.
  • 65 towns, 1,456 villages, and one people comprise the Ibadan megapolis.

Sources:

  • "Ibadan Indigenes Endorse Rotational Chairmanship of Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs" by Naija Times Online News Agency