Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision to coronate three Ibadan High Chiefs in absentia has ignited fresh legal controversy in Oyo State, with lawyers and traditional authorities questioning the legitimacy of the process.
The affected chiefs—Sharafadeen Alli, Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin, and Oyekola Babalola—had earlier informed the state government of their inability to attend the ceremony held on Friday and requested a postponement. Despite this, the government proceeded with the coronation, declaring them duly installed.
Alli was named Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, while Adewoyin and Babalola were installed as Ekeerin Balogun and Ekaarun Olubadan, respectively.
The development has sparked debate among legal practitioners and cultural stakeholders over whether a coronation can be validly conducted without the physical presence of the appointees.
A constitutional lawyer, Adebisi Adeyemo, described the process as fundamentally flawed, arguing that it lacks legal and customary backing. He explained that while the 1999 Constitution grants executive powers to state governors, such powers are not absolute and must align with the rule of law.
Adeyemo drew a distinction between the approval of a chieftaincy title and the actual installation, noting that installation is a deeply rooted customary process that requires the personal participation of the appointee.
He stressed that key elements of the coronation, including oath-taking and the acceptance of traditional insignia, are personal acts that cannot be delegated or performed in absentia. According to him, these rites form the foundation of legitimacy in traditional institutions.
Citing legal precedents, he referenced Supreme Court rulings which emphasise strict adherence to established procedures in chieftaincy matters, warning that any deviation could render such actions invalid.
The lawyer also raised concerns about fair hearing, noting that proceeding with the coronation despite the chiefs’ request for postponement could violate their legal rights.
He further argued that if the legality of the exercise is questionable, then the use of public funds for the ceremony may also be subject to scrutiny.
Other experts share similar views, maintaining that legitimacy in traditional rulership cannot be conferred solely by executive declaration but must follow due process under both law and custom.
Residents have also expressed concern, warning that the development could set a troubling precedent if not properly addressed.
