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.
