The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a landmark amendment to the State Council of Obas and Chiefs Law, establishing a rotational chairmanship system among the Alaafin of Oyo, Olubadan of Ibadanland, and Soun of Ogbomoso. This decisive move, reached during Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, resolves months of heated debate over traditional leadership representation in the state.
The new rotational model replaces a controversial proposal that sought to make the Alaafin permanent chairman, which had drawn strong opposition from Ibadan and Ogbomoso traditional leaders. Under the revised law, the three paramount rulers will now alternate leadership of the council every two years, beginning with the Alaafin as first rotational chairman.
Key Provisions of the Amendment
✔ Rotation Order: Alaafin → Olubadan → Soun (2-year terms each)
✔ Implementation: Takes immediate effect
✔ Voting Rights: All three monarchs retain equal council votes
Why This Matters
► Ends prolonged supremacy debate among royal houses
► Promotes equitable power-sharing in traditional governance
► Sets precedent for inclusive traditional institutions nationwide
Reactions to the Decision
- Ibadan Mogajis: “Victory for justice and fairness”
- Oyo Chiefs: “Respects our historical prominence”
- Ogbomoso Elders: “Proper recognition at last”
Next Steps
- Official gazetting of the amended law
- Inauguration of new rotational leadership structure
- Review of council membership and functions
