Let us say it plainly: Governor Seyi Makinde has, by many political standards, appeared exceptionally benevolent towards the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja. From the honour attached to his name to the prominent place given to him within Oyo's traditional structure, there has been enough political body language for many observers to conclude that Seyi Makinde appears to favour the Olubadan.
And perhaps that perception became even stronger during the controversy over who should chair the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
Historically, the Alaafin occupied an extraordinarily influential position in the political, administrative and military structure of the old Oyo Empire. The Alaafin was not simply a traditional ruler in the modern sense; the institution stood at the centre of one of the most powerful political systems in pre-colonial West Africa.
Ibadan's historical trajectory was different. Although Ibadan eventually developed into an exceptionally powerful military and political centre during the 19th century, its traditional institution was originally headed by a Baale, rather than an Oba. Whatever sensitivities this historical fact may generate today, it remains relevant when discussing the evolution of Yoruba traditional institutions.
Ile-Ife also occupied — and continues to occupy — a unique place in Yoruba history. As the spiritual and ancestral homeland of the Yoruba, Ile-Ife possesses enormous cultural significance, with the Ooni serving as its traditional custodian.
The creation of Osun State in 1991 changed the administrative landscape, separating Ile-Ife from the old Oyo State and allowing the traditional institutions of the two states to develop within different political structures.
In Oyo State, however, the question of who should chair the Council of Obas and Chiefs has remained politically sensitive.
For years, the Alaafin occupied the position of permanent chairman. That arrangement was disrupted during the administration of former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala amid his disagreements with the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. The permanent arrangement subsequently gave way to rotation.
When the new Alaafin ascended the throne, the issue returned to the political front burner. There were renewed calls for the restoration of the Alaafin's permanent chairmanship, based largely on historical precedent and the institution's traditional standing.
But the state eventually retained the rotational arrangement.
And this is where the Makinde factor enters the conversation.
Whether one agrees with it or not, the governor's body language appeared to favour the Olubadan's position. To his critics, that political signal was difficult to miss. To his supporters, however, it was simply an attempt to create a more inclusive traditional arrangement in which the three major traditional institutions — the Alaafin of Oyo, Olubadan of Ibadanland and Soun of Ogbomoso — would have an opportunity to chair the council.
Whatever the interpretation, the outcome was clear: the rotational arrangement remained.
In January 2026, the reconstituted Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs commenced the two-year rotational chairmanship arrangement, with Oba Rashidi Ladoja becoming the first chairman under the new system.
That development inevitably raised questions.
Why the Olubadan first? Why not the Alaafin, considering the historical precedent?
And this is precisely where the political argument begins.
For many supporters of Governor Makinde, the story does not end with the Council of Obas.
Look at the Oba Rashidi Ladoja Estate along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
Consider also the Ibadan Circular Road, a major infrastructure project that had remained a long-standing aspiration before the Makinde administration pushed ahead with its development. The road was subsequently named Oba Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, a major public honour for the monarch.
Put all these together and it is understandable why some people perceive Governor Makinde as having gone out of his way to demonstrate goodwill towards Kabiyesi.
Which brings us to the question many Makinde supporters are now asking:
Kini ẹ̀ṣẹ̀ Governor Seyi Makinde?
What exactly has the governor done to deserve what they perceive as hostility from Kabiyesi?
Of course, Oba Ladoja has every right as a citizen to hold political opinions and support candidates of his choice. But the Olubadan is not merely a private citizen. He occupies one of the most respected traditional positions in Oyo State and is regarded as a father figure to millions.
That is why perceived partisan involvement naturally attracts public scrutiny.
If all political candidates are Kabiyesi's sons, why should the Olubadan appear to openly take sides?
And if Governor Makinde has demonstrated such goodwill towards the institution and its occupant, should the relationship now be reduced to political opposition?
The same question extends to the presidential contest.
Should traditional institutions become instruments for partisan political battles, or should traditional rulers remain above party politics and provide guidance to everyone?
Meanwhile, ordinary Nigerians are still struggling with economic realities. Since 2023, the removal of fuel subsidy and other economic pressures have significantly increased the cost of living, affecting transport, food, construction and household expenses.
So the electorate should ask the most important question:
Who has actually delivered?
In Oyo State, supporters of Governor Seyi Makinde point to infrastructure development, improved internally generated revenue, employment initiatives, investment attraction and efforts to open up the state for greater economic activity.
As 2027 approaches, Oyo people should therefore look beyond personalities, friendships and political alliances.
Allocation Oyo State ni 2027 kò ní lọ sí ibi táà fẹ́.
It must go where development and the interests of the people demand.
To workers, retirees, young people, entrepreneurs and ordinary residents: remember the projects. Remember the policies. Remember the opportunities. Remember what you can actually see.
Traditional rulers deserve our respect.
But democracy belongs to the people.
Kabiyesi may have his political preferences. Political parties may have their candidates. Former allies may become political opponents.
But on election day, the people of Oyo State will have the final say.
And for those who believe in continuity, development and a more prosperous Oyo State, Abim Adekanmbi is the right man for the job — a candidate his supporters believe can build on the foundation already laid and take Oyo State to even greater heights.
Ultimately, the question for 2027 should not simply be:
“Who is supporting whom?”
The real question is:
“Who has the record, capacity and vision to move Oyo State forward?”
That is the question every voter should answer.
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