The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has elevated Senator Sharafadeen Alli from Ekarun Balogun to Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland.

Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly and is the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Oyo State, announced the elevation in a statement on Saturday.

The senator said he was unable to attend the ceremony held at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, because he is currently in the Holy Land performing Umrah.

He expressed appreciation to Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, and members of the Olubadan Advisory Council for the confidence reposed in him.

Alli also thanked the Mogajis, traditional rulers, Baales, political associates and friends who represented him at the ceremony.

He described the elevation as more than a change in title, saying it came with greater responsibility to the people of Ibadanland.

“A step up in rank is a step up in responsibility,” Alli said, adding that the new position represented a renewed call to serve, listen, unite and contribute to the peace, progress and development of the community.

The latest elevation follows Alli's progression through the Balogun line of the Olubadan succession system. In August 2024, he was elevated from Maye Balogun to Ekarun Balogun by the then Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

In March 2026, the Oyo State Government approved his elevation to the rank of a beaded crown-wearing Oba. His coronation, alongside two other high chiefs, subsequently took place in April, although Alli was absent from the ceremony.

Alli said he had accepted the latest elevation as a responsibility from his people and expressed readiness to carry out the duties associated with the position.