Governance is often measured by infrastructural development, economic reforms, and social impact. Yet history, in its mysterious rhythm, sometimes rewards leaders with legacies not scripted in policy documents but written in cultural and spiritual memory. Such is the unfolding story of Governor Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, whose tenure as Governor of Oyo State has coincided with a series of rare and historic transitions in the Yoruba traditional institution.
During his administration, Governor Makinde has presided over the enthronement of some of the most revered first-class monarchs in Yorubaland:
1. The new Soun of Ogbomoso, filling a stool that has defined the political and spiritual heartbeat of Ogbomoso for centuries (cf. Falola, T. Yoruba Towns and Their Histories, 2019
2. The new Alaafin of Oyo, successor to a throne described by scholars as “the most enduring symbol of Yoruba political sovereignty” (see Johnson, S. The History of the Yorubas, 1921)
3. A New Aseyin of Iseyin, a paramount ruler whose stool is central to Oke-Ogun’s identity and spiritual cohesion.
4. The 42nd, 43rd, and now the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, culminating in the enthronement of Oba (Sen.) Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Aruṣa I of Ibadanland. As Akinyele (2013) notes in The Olubadan-in-Council and the Politics of Succession, the Olubadan system is unique in Africa for its hierarchical and rotational ladder of ascension — a process so gradual that enthronements often occur decades apart.
To witness three Olubadan coronations within a single gubernatorial tenure is, by every measure, an unprecedented historical event.
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Traditional rulers, while constitutionally outside partisan politics, remain central to Yoruba identity, cohesion, and grassroots governance (Adewoye, 2010). Their roles as custodians of culture and mediators of social order mean that the installation of new monarchs resonates far beyond ceremony — it signals continuity, stability, and renewal.
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Governor Makinde, therefore, finds himself not just as a political leader but as a symbolic custodian of Yoruba tradition in this extraordinary season. His signature on the letters of appointment and his presence at these historic ceremonies secure him a unique chapter in Oyo State history.
The question then arises: is this remarkable alignment of events a matter of coincidence, or an expression of divine grace? Political scientists may argue for coincidence, but cultural observers lean towards providence. What is beyond debate is that Governor Seyi Makinde will be remembered not only for his infrastructural reforms and governance style but also as the governor under whose watch history unfolded in Yoruba royal succession.
Reality of Life: The Story of Governor Seyi Makinde and Senator Oba Ladoja || By Segun Akinlabi
It may take nothing short of the grace of God for another Oyo State governor in this century to witness — let alone surpass — such a string of monumental royal transitions.
In the grand narrative of Oyo history, Governor Makinde has earned his place not just as a reformer but as a leader inextricably woven into the cultural fabric of Yorubaland.
Congratulations to Governor Seyi Makinde, a governor of history, legacy, and grace.
Complied by: Egalitarian Voice
