The Oyo State Government has fixed April 3, 2026, for the coronation and beaded crown ceremony of newly elevated high chiefs in Ibadanland, with the inclusion of Senator Sharafadeen Alli raising fresh questions about his reported governorship ambition.

The ceremony, scheduled to hold at Mapo Hall, was announced in a statement dated March 26, 2026, by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Aderemola Ojo. The statement was addressed to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, following the monarch’s request for a list of high chiefs due for elevation to wear beaded crowns.

The government said the conferment of beaded crowns on the affected chiefs is “traditionally necessary and essential,” stressing that any delay could trigger political insinuations and weaken the integrity of the Ibadan traditional institution.

Alli, who holds the title of Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland and currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District, is among members of the Olubadan-in-Council listed for the honour.

However, the development has sparked political debate due to the implications of the Oyo State chieftaincy law, which bars crowned traditional rulers from participating in partisan politics, including contesting elective positions.

With Alli widely believed to be interested in the Oyo State governorship race under the All Progressives Congress, his elevation could force a defining choice between traditional authority and political ambition.

Analysts say the move may significantly alter the political landscape within the APC in Oyo State, potentially prompting a recalibration of the party’s list of aspirants ahead of the next election cycle.

While the state government maintains that the exercise is purely rooted in tradition and administrative necessity, opposition voices have questioned the timing, arguing that it could influence the emerging dynamics of the 2027 governorship contest.

The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, has suspended a former lawmaker, Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun, from his chieftaincy title as Mayegun of Ogbomosoland over alleged acts of insubordination and persistent disrespect to the palace.

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was conveyed in a letter dated March 23, 2026, and signed by the Palace Secretary, Toyin Ajamu.

In the letter, the monarch said the decision followed what he described as sustained acts of insubordination, wilful disregard, and conduct unbecoming of a traditional title holder.

According to the palace, Adeseun’s actions over time had become a source of concern and embarrassment to the traditional institution, falling short of the dignity and responsibility expected of the holder of the Mayegun title.

The statement noted that the senator’s behaviour, both in public and private, showed a consistent disregard for the authority, traditions, and sanctity of the palace.

“It is with deep regret, yet with a firm sense of royal duty and responsibility, that His Imperial Majesty has taken cognisance of your sustained acts of insubordination, wilful disregard, and persistent disrespect toward the Palace and the sacred institution it represents,” the letter read.

“These actions, observed over a considerable period, fall significantly short of the dignity, honour, and responsibility expected of a chief of this Palace.”

The monarch, therefore, exercised his authority to suspend Adeseun indefinitely from the office and title of Mayegun of Ogbomosoland.

The palace further directed the lawmaker to immediately cease parading himself as Mayegun in any capacity, including at public functions, official engagements, media appearances, and on social media platforms.

“You are hereby directed, with immediate effect, to cease and desist from presenting yourself as the Mayegun of Ogbomosoland in any capacity whatsoever,” the letter added.

HRM Lasisi Olagbemileke Oladimeji, who is an ancestral member of the ‘Emiolu Ruling Houes’ of Iresa-Adu and the Oba Arayin of Irayin land, a border village, in Surulere LGA, Iresa-Adu, Oyo state has now added his voice to those appealing to the Governor of Oyo State to resolve the vacant throne of Aresa-Adu of Iresa-Adu, which has been vacant for nearly 8years.

His Royal Highness, Oba Lasisi Olagbemileke Oladimeji is a major PDP Chieftain in Ogbomosho Zone before his ascension to the throne in 2023 as the Aranyin of Iranyin land. Oba Lasisi Oladimeji is one of the foremost Oba in Surulere LGA, Oyo state. Irayin is a boundary village on Aresa-Adu land that shares boundary with Ifon, Osun state, and has been subjected to boundary disputes with Ifon on multiple occasions.

The Aranyin of Iranyin in his statement appealed to the Governor of Oyo State. He referenced how Governor Seyi Makind have resolved Chieftaincy matters in Ibadan, Oyo, and many other towns in Oyo State. He further appealed to Governor Makinde to help resolve that of Aresa-Adu of Iresa-Adu throne as well.

“Governor Makinde has proven to be a Governor who listens to the people. He has resolved more Chieftaincy matters than any sitting Governor of Oyo State. That is why we are appealing to him to help us resolve that of Aresa-Adu too”.

Oba Oladimeji said he is an Aresa-Adu bloodline himself from the Emiolu Ruling House of Iresa-Adu and has ancestral authority over the crisis. Therefore, he is now appealing for the need to install Aresa-Adu of Iresa-Adu who is a first-class monarch in Yoruba history.

“Besides being an Oba on Iresa land, I am personally a member of the Aresa Chieftaincy family. So, resolving the Aresa-Adu throne is personal to me. You cannot tell the Aranyin history without telling the history of Aresa”.

Oba Oladimeji was a PDP Party Chieftain in the 5 Local Governments of Ogbomoso zone, and Oyo State at large. Oba Lasisi Oladimeji was highly instrumental in the 2019 and 2023 PDP election successes and a key force behind PDP winning one of the very few House of Representatives in Oyo state. Notable is the Federal House of Representative currently representing Surulere and Ogooluwa Federal Constituency, Honourable Ojo Sunday Makanjuola.

Oba Oladimeji, emphasized that “there are various vacant Kings and Baales across border towns and villages on Aresa-Adu lands. As a result of land encroachment and great need to coordinate and combat insecurity for towns and villages which also include Iranyin, a paramount Aresa-Adu is required”.

Recent news report shows that some criminal elements are crawling into Oyo State through border towns and villages of the state. This assertion is further proved by the recent arrest of Cattle Rustlers in Iresa-Adu by the Oyo State Police Command in January 2026.

Oba Lasisi Oladimeji, expressed his sadness over the matter, he said, “I raised this concerns about the vacant Aresa-Adu throne and security lapses when the Governor last visited Surulere Local Government at the palace of the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in January 2026”.

Governor Seyi Makinde visited Ogbomosho zone January 2026, in a show of solidarity with Oloka town in Orire local government which is close to Iresa-Adu over the recent deadly bandits attack on forest guards.

Oba Aranyin said his Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde has displayed good intentions in his time in office. He said Governor Makinde have used executive power to resolve many vacant Oba stools in Oyo State that could have led to years of vacant thrones. He however appealed for the Aresa-Adu throne not to be left out.

“We have many towns under Aresa-Adu with crowned Obas and Baales that have existed since several centuries ago. Myself, I am the 21st Aranyin of Iranyin.  But how can I be proud when the main monarch of our land is not enthroned.

Oba Ladimeji prayed for the Oyo State government at large and emphasized his strong belief that Governor Seyi Makinde is a Governor of the people and believes that the Governor will act swiftly and decisively on any crisis in Oyo state.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye is widely known as a seasoned professional with a strong background in finance, governance, and public service. He built his career in top global firms such as Deloitte, KPMG, and EY, where he gained deep experience in financial advisory, risk management, and forensic investigations. Over the years, he has earned a reputation for integrity, discipline, and problem solving.

Beyond his corporate success, he has shown a clear commitment to giving back through education support, youth empowerment, and community development projects across Oyo State.

In recent times, his name has been gaining steady attention across Oke-Ogun. Many people in the region see him as someone who understands both the technical side of governance and the real needs of the people. His outreach efforts, support for students, and empowerment programmes have helped him connect with young people, traders, and community leaders. This growing support is not just about popularity, but about trust. People believe he has the capacity to represent their interests and bring meaningful development to underserved areas.

Oke-Ogun itself is increasingly seen as a region ready to produce a governor. For years, the region has contributed to the political and economic strength of Oyo State, yet many feel it has not been fully represented at the highest level governance . There is now a stronger sense of unity and purpose among the people. Community voices are becoming more aligned around the idea that it is time for Oke-Ogun to take its rightful place in leadership.

In terms of numbers, Oke-Ogun holds significant voting strength within Oyo State. With its large population spread across several local governments, the region has the ability to influence election outcomes when it votes with a common goal. This strength, combined with growing political awareness, makes it a key factor in any serious gubernatorial race.

With his professional track records, grassroots connection, and rising support base, many believe Amofin Beulah Adeoye represents both competence and opportunity. For supporters, his candidacy reflects not just a personal ambition, but a broader movement for inclusion, balance, and progress for Oke-Ogun and Oyo State as a whole.

Temitope Samuel Abegunde writes from Oluyole, Ibadan.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, a leading gubernatorial aspirant under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP has appeared before the party’s gubernatorial Screening Committee ahead of the 2027 Oyo State governorship race.

The Screening Committee was chaired by Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, who also served as Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council. Members of the Screening Committee were drawn from both the PDP Elders Council and the Governor’s Advisory Council. The composition of the panel was commended by party stakeholders and described as a signal of seriousness, balance and a consultative approach to the party’s internal process.

During the screening, which held between 12 noon and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Amofin Beulah Adeoye presented his rich credentials, shared his experience across different leadership capacities, and outlined his vision for the future of Oyo State. He also spoke on the widespread support and growing acceptance he enjoys across the state.

The appearance of 43-year-old, Amofin Adeoye before the apex Screening Committee of the party has stirred excitement across the 351 wards and 33 local government areas of the state, with many supporters and observers describing it as another strong indication of Governor Seyi Makinde’s visionary and inclusive leadership style.

To many stakeholders, the screening process reflects a leadership culture that gives room for broad participation, fairness and merit in determining the future of Oyo State.

Governor Seyi Makinde has continued to earn praise for sustaining a political environment where consultation, inclusion and internal democracy remain central to the succession conversation. Many believe that, as he prepares to complete his tenure, he is not only leaving behind a record of good governance and development, but also a legacy of openness that allows competent and widely accepted leaders from different zones of the state to emerge.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye’s appearance before the committee has attracted wider attention due to his rich profile and his political journey. From global boardrooms at Deloitte to grassroots engagements across Oyo State, his gubernatorial bid has continued to receive commendations of party men after stepping aside from his international financial advisory role two years ago. Amofin Adeoye has moved across Ibarapa, Oyo, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun and Ibadan, building bridges, consulting stakeholders and shaping what many describe as a bold and inclusive vision for the state.

Amofin Adeoye remains the only governorship aspirant from Oke-Ogun zone, his participation in the screening has further strengthened conversations around fairness, justice and balanced representation in Oyo State politics. For many, this moment is being viewed as a possible new dawn for Oke-Ogun, a zone whose people have long desired a stronger voice at the highest level of leadership in the state.

Supporters say his aspiration represents a meeting point of competence, exposure, generational promise and regional inclusion. They point to his background in law, finance and high-level multinational leadership as evidence of his readiness to bring strategic thinking, administrative strength and broad-based governance to public service.

More importantly, many believe this moment resonates strongly with the spirit of equity and fairness that has increasingly shaped political conversations under the Omituntun 1.0 and 2.0 reforms of Governor Seyi Makinde. In that regard, Amofin Beulah Adeoye’s emergence is seen by many not just as a personal political aspiration, but as part of a wider call for inclusive governance and equal opportunity for every zone in the Pace Setter State.

His message is clear. His movement is growing. His timing is strategic.

For many across Oke-Ogun and beyond, Saturday’s screening was more than a routine party exercise. It was a powerful moment of hope, a statement of possibility, and perhaps a sign that Oyo State may be moving toward a new chapter where competence, fairness and inclusion define the path to leadership.

As the political buildup to 2027 gradually gains momentum, one question now echoes more loudly across the state: could this be the rise of Oke-Ogun’s long-awaited governorship voice?

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, is reportedly set to resign from the Federal Executive Council next week as he intensifies his ambition to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election.

A source close to the minister disclosed that Adelabu is still firmly in the race and has concluded plans to step down from his position in line with emerging political developments ahead of the polls.

The source, who spoke to OyoMind on condition of anonymity, said the planned resignation is part of a broader strategy to enable the minister fully focus on his governorship bid under the All Progressives Congress.

It was gathered that the expected move is also linked to a directive by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which reportedly requires political appointees with aspirations for elective offices in 2027 to resign on or before March 31, 2026.

Recent reports indicate that several ministers and top government officials are considering stepping down in compliance with the directive as party primaries approach.

Adelabu, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and current minister since 2023, has long signalled his interest in the Oyo governorship race, having previously contested in 2019 and 2023.

This publication understands his anticipated resignation aligns with earlier indications that he may leave the cabinet to pursue his gubernatorial ambition, with stakeholders already positioning for a possible replacement at the Ministry of Power.

Although there has been no official confirmation from the minister or the Presidency regarding the exact timing of his resignation, insiders maintain that the move is imminent.

If confirmed, Adelabu’s exit is expected to reshape both the federal cabinet and the political landscape in Oyo State, where the race to succeed incumbent governor Seyi Makinde is gradually gaining momentum.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, president of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation and a leading gubernatorial aspirant under the platform of People’s Democratic Party, Oyo State has extended his warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to all Muslim faithful in Oyo State and across the world on the joyous occasion of Eid-il-Fitr.

Amofin Adeoye described Eid as a sacred celebration that crowns a period of fasting, prayer and spiritual renewal. He said Eid is a time that reminds everyone of the boundless mercy of Almighty Allah and importance of living a life rooted in faith, humility, compassion and generosity.

The legal icon said that, the discipline and devotion demonstrated throughout Ramadan validated the strength of character and resilience within the Muslim Ummah.

Amofin Adeoye reminded every Muslims the need to sustain the instructive lessons of Ramadan at this critical time in Nigeria. He called on all Muslims to embrace justice, fairness and collective respect to address multifaceted challenges confronting the country.

“As a gubernatorial aspirant and founder of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, I remain deeply committed to initiatives that uplift the vulnerable, empower our youth and promote sustainable development across Oyo State”.

Amofin Adeoye prayed may the Eid brings peace and prosperity to everyone home.