Tension are rising in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital as the state government has concluded arrangements and fixed April 3rd for the coronation of the Senator representing Oyo South senatorial district, Sarafadeen
Alli as a crown wearing high chief.

This move, DECENCY GLOBAL NEWS, understands is part of the intrigues for the 2027 gubernatorial elections in the state.

Senator Alli, the man whose political fortune is about to be truncated has cried foul and frowned at the whole episode of confusing politics with the tradition. He stated his disposition in a terse message titled “EKARUN Balogun Frowns At Politically Motivated Beaded Crown” and made available to DECENCY GLOBAL NEWS.

The statement:
“EKARUN BALOGUN FROWNS AT POLITICALLY MOTIVATED BEADED CROWN 🔥
The unfolding drama surrounding the proposed beaded crown for the Ekarun Balogun Olubadan has now taken a shocking and dramatic twist—and it is time to set the record straight, firmly and without any ambiguity.

Long before the controversial circular issued by the Oyo State Government directing that Senator Sarafadeen Alli should wear a beaded crown, there was no agitation, no demand, and certainly no traditional pressure justifying such desperate urgency. What existed was a well-structured, time-honoured chieftaincy system in Ibadanland—a system that has stood the test of time for generations without any form of political manipulation or interference.

Let it be made abundantly clear: the office of the Ekarun Olubadan is not subject to political orders or executive decrees. It is deeply rooted in culture, governed strictly by seniority, and fiercely protected by tradition. No authority—whether civil or political—has the power to force the EKARUN Balogun Olubadan to wear a crown that many now see as politically motivated. Such a move does not only raise serious concerns; it directly attacks the very foundation and dignity of Ibadan’s highly respected traditional institution.

Senator Alli is not a newcomer in the political space. He fully understands the weight of history, the sacredness of culture, and the expectations of the people. Any decision he takes concerning the beaded crown will not be influenced by circulars or political convenience, but by conscience, tradition, and personal integrity.

This issue goes far beyond mere appearance or attire—it is a serious test of character. It is about protecting the sanctity and dignity of the Olubadan system from dangerous political intrusion.

Ibadanland must never be turned into a stage where tradition is twisted to satisfy temporary political interests.

The message is loud, clear, and uncompromising: tradition is not for sale, and the Ekarun Balogun Olubadan cannot—and will never—be forced.
By Demola Olanlokun
N4/534
Yemetu Oje
Ibadan.”

According to the Ibadan chieftaincy law, crown wearing chiefs in the Olubadan-in-council are not allowed to openly participate in partisan politics.

This indicates that Ali’s promotion will halt his bid to run for the 2027 gubernatorial seat in the state.
The statement fixing the conferment of the new chiefs, signed by the
Commissioner for Local Government
& Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, read in part: “I have the directive to refer to Your Majesty’s correspondence ref. no L/ADV/Co/1242/843 dated 23rd March, 2026 in respect of the above and to inform Your Majesty that while making arrangement for the compilation of the High Chiefs and Baales who are due for beaded crown wearing in Ibadanland as requested, it is traditionally necessary and very essential at this point in time that the newly elevated Chiefs in Olubadan-in-Council i.e
​i. High Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin — Ekeerin Olubadan
ii. High Chief Sarafadeen Abindin Ali — Ekaarun Balogun
iii. High Chief Kola Babalola — Ekaarun Olubadan
​“Should be immediately conferred with beaded crowns in order to avoid unnecessary insinuation that the delay is deliberate and political. This is necessary in order to and protect the Ibadan traditional institution.

“To this end, Your Majesty is hereby informed that the coronation/crown wearing programme for the above mentioned High Chiefs has been fixed for Friday 3rd April, 2026 at Mapo Hall Ibadan.
​“I thank Your Majesty for Your anticipated co-operation. Kabiyesi oo.”

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