OLUBADAN CONFERS NEW CHIEFTAINCY TITLE ON OYO APC GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, has approved the elevation of the Oyo State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Oloye Olasunkanmi Alli, to the traditional title of Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland. The conferment forms part of the traditional chieftaincy structure of Ibadanland and was announced during a ceremony attended by political and traditional figures.

Alli, who is preparing to contest the Oyo State governorship election on the APC platform, was among those recognised during the event. His elevation to the Ekerin Balogun position adds a traditional title to his existing public and political activities in the state as political parties continue preparations for the forthcoming election.

The ceremony brought together members of the Olubadan-in-Council, traditional rulers, political associates, family members and other guests. The development also attracted attention because of Alli’s position as the APC candidate, although the chieftaincy title is a traditional institution separate from the electoral process.

The Ekerin Balogun title is one of the recognised traditional positions within the Ibadan chieftaincy system. The Olubadan-in-Council plays a central role in the advancement of chiefs through the established traditional hierarchy, with promotions carried out in accordance with the customs and procedures governing the institution.

The elevation comes as political activities continue to build ahead of the Oyo State governorship contest. Alli is expected to continue his campaign on the APC platform as the party seeks to compete for control of the state, while the latest traditional honour marks another significant development in his public career.