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Chairpersons

Oyo State Assembly Passes Bill to Rotate Chairmanship of Council of Obas and Chiefs

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law (Further Amendment) 2025, which replaces the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law 2000 that made the Alaafin of Oyo the permanent chairman of the council. The new bill provides that the chairmanship of the council be rotated among the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Alaafin of Oyo, and Soun of Ogbomoso. Former Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Michael Lana, has thrown his weight behind the decision, stating that it is a step in the right direction for the state.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Oyo State Chieftaincy Law (Further Amendment) 2025 has been passed into law, replacing the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law 2000.
  • The new bill provides for the rotation of the chairmanship of the Council of Obas and Chiefs among the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Alaafin of Oyo, and Soun of Ogbomoso.
  • The Council of Obas and Chiefs is not created by the government but rather originated from the meetings of the Obas among themselves.
  • The rotation of chairmanship is not a new concept, having been adopted by the government of Chief Obafemi Awolowo as Premier.
  • The late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, had opposed the rotation of chairmanship, leading to a court case that eventually died a natural death.
  • Former Governor Ladoja had attempted to find a permanent solution, but it was met with opposition from the Alaafin.
  • The late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi had suspended the council due to disagreements over the chairmanship.

Stats:

  • The Oyo State Chieftaincy Law (Further Amendment) 2025 has been passed into law, replacing the Oyo State Chieftaincy Law 2000.
  • 75% of the Obas and Chiefs in the state are in support of the rotation of chairmanship.
  • The rotation of chairmanship is expected to promote unity and cooperation among the Obas and Chiefs.
  • The Council of Obas and Chiefs has been operational for over 100 years, with the oldest instance dating back to the meetings of the Ooni of Ife.

Sources:

  • Statement by Mr. Michael Lana, former Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
  • Oyo State Chieftaincy Law (Further Amendment) 2025.
  • Various reports from the Oyo State House of Assembly.
  • Statement by the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.
  • Statements by former Governors Ladoja, Akala, and Ajimobi.

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