There is uncertainty surrounding the planned coronation of three high chiefs in Ibadanland today, as Oba Rashidi Ladoja has reportedly taken a defiant position against the state government, directing a boycott of the coronation.

Meanwhile, the Olubadan has dismissed reports of a rift between him and the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, describing such claims as unfounded.

In a dramatic twist, credible palace sources confirm that the monarch has also left Ibadan for Lagos, a move widely interpreted as a strong signal of his resolve amid the escalating standoff.

Sources indicate that the Olubadan is prepared for a confrontation with the administration of Governor Makinde, signalling his intention to stay away from the ceremony and urging the affected chiefs to do the same.This development has significantly heightened tension within the traditional institution and the political space.

The Oyo State Government has fixed the ceremony for Mapo Hall, where high chiefs Sharafadeen Ali, Kol Babalola and Akeem Adewoyin are to be elevated to the status of Obas.

However, concerns have emerged over the monarch’s absence from Ibadan ahead of the event. A palace source disclosed that Oba Ladoja had travelled to Lagos for an undisclosed engagement and had yet to return as of the time of filing this report.

“Kabiyesi left Ibadan for Lagos. It is most likely that he will return tomorrow to preside over the elevation ceremony of the affected high chiefs,” the source said.

The source, however, expressed uncertainty over whether the Olubadan would personally officiate at the ceremony.

“I cannot say whether Baba will preside over the ceremony or not. All I know is that he is not in town at the moment,” the source added.

The development has fuelled speculation that the monarch may not be present at the event, even as preparations continue.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Demola Ojo, affirmed that the state government would proceed with the ceremony as scheduled.

“The elevation of the three high chiefs to the status of Obas in Ibadanland will be held on Friday at Mapo Hall,” he stated.

It could not be ascertained whether Senator Alli would also be present to receive the beaded crown.

The senator’s elevation has also generated interest within political circles, with analysts suggesting it could have implications for his potential participation in the 2027 Oyo State governorship race on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Insiders reveal that the boycott is partly aimed at shielding Senator Alli, who is said to be at the centre of the controversy surrounding the coronation and its political undertones.

A highly placed source disclosed that the Olubadan, who is also a former governor, is fully aware of the powers vested in an Executive Governor and believes that the current political configuration in the state could shift significantly in the near future.

The development has effectively drawn a clear battle line between the Olubadan and Governor Makinde’s administration, raising concerns about a potential and unprecedented clash between traditional authority and state power.

IN a statement issued by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, yesterday, the monarch noted that his attention had been drawn to trending reports suggesting a breakdown in relations between the palace and the state government.

The statement, however, maintained that there was no discord between the Olubadan and the governor, emphasising that both parties continue to maintain cordial relations.

It further clarified that the monarch did not travel out of Ibadan to avoid the coronation earlier scheduled for Friday, April 3, 2026.

According to the palace, Ladoja remains in Ibadan and is in good health, actively discharging his responsibilities as the traditional ruler of the ancient city.

The palace also explained that the planned coronation of three high chiefs was postponed following a request by the affected individuals, who reportedly indicated their unavailability for the ceremony.

The development, according to the statement, has since been conveyed to the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.

The clarification came amid heightened public interest surrounding the proposed coronation and earlier speculation over the monarch’s absence.