Two prominent traditional rulers in Oyo State, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Olaoye Ghandi, were noticeably absent on Monday as Governor Seyi Makinde formally inaugurated activities marking the state’s 50th anniversary.

The ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan, attracted family members of former governors, traditional and religious leaders, senior government officials, and political stakeholders. Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, from the former Western Region, with Ibadan as its capital.

The state government had earlier unveiled a week-long programme for the golden jubilee on January 21, 2026. Planned activities include religious services, cultural exhibitions, a public lecture titled “Consolidating the Legacy, Navigating the Present and Reimagining the Future,” as well as an awards and dinner night.

Governor Makinde had constituted an 11-member planning committee for the anniversary, chaired by a former member of the House of Representatives, Saheed Fijabi.

While the Olubadan of Ibadan and Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, was present alongside several other monarchs, the absence of the Alaafin and the Soun attracted attention, coming against the backdrop of the governor’s recent decision to rotate the chairmanship of the Council of Obas among the Alaafin, Soun, and Olubadan. The position had previously been permanently held by the Alaafin.

At Oba Ladoja’s inauguration as council chairman, Makinde said the rotational arrangement had the consent of the three monarchs. However, the Alaafin subsequently issued a rebuttal, insisting he was not part of any meeting where such an agreement was reached.

Monday’s event marked the first major state function since the announcement of the rotational chairmanship and the Alaafin’s public objection.

Efforts by our correspondent to obtain reactions from the spokesmen of the Alaafin and the Soun, Bode Durojaye and Peter Olaleye respectively, were unsuccessful as calls to their telephone lines did not go through.

Speaking at the event, Governor Makinde cut the anniversary cake and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a stronger and more competitive economy capable of creating jobs, attracting investments, and expanding opportunities for residents.

He said the next 50 years of Oyo State must deliver greater prosperity, fairness, dignity, and hope for its people.

The governor also reflected on the legacy of former Governor Bola Ige, citing his provision of free textbooks, furniture, and learning materials as a foundation for the state’s governance philosophy and belief in equal opportunity.

Makinde further highlighted a digital tribute platform launched for the anniversary, which has collected hundreds of citizen stories showcasing resilience, enterprise, and a shared sense of belonging.

“One resident now runs a business employing eight young people. Another tribute reflects the quiet pride of citizens whose lives were nurtured and educated in Oyo State. These stories are not just tributes; they are evidence of opportunity, enterprise, hope, and belonging,” he said.

He commended service commanders and security agencies for maintaining peace and security across the state and assured them of continued government support. Makinde urged residents to participate actively in the anniversary activities, with the grand finale scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Earlier, Fijabi described the celebration as both a reflection on Oyo State’s history and a declaration of intent for sustained progress, outlining key leadership milestones and development achievements.

In his remarks, Oba Ladoja called for recognition of past political leaders and unsung heroes whose contributions laid the foundation for the state’s growth. He referenced leadership during the Third Republic, including Chief Kolapo Adewuyi Ishola and his deputy, Ahmed Gbadamosi, as well as the administrations of former governors Rashidi Ladoja and Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala.

One of the citizen stories highlighted was that of Toluwaloju Foluso, a National Youth Service Corps member in 2021 who invested his allowance in learning fashion design during his service year, illustrating the opportunities nurtured within the state.

The absence of the Alaafin and the Soun, against the backdrop of their earlier objections to the rotational leadership of the Council of Obas, points to lingering tensions within the state’s traditional institutions, even as the government presses ahead with its golden jubilee celebrations.

Makinde, however, maintained that his administration remains committed to inclusive governance, economic growth, and public engagement, insisting that Oyo State’s next 50 years must be defined by innovation, prosperity, and opportunity for all residents.