Member of the House of Representatives, Akin Alabi, has been promoted to the position of Aare Onibon Olubadan of Ibadanland by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. The elevation, described as a double promotion, saw Alabi move from the position of Ajia Olubadan. The reshuffling follows the recent deaths of two senior chiefs on the Olubadan succession line: Oloye Raufu Delesolu (Ikolaba Olubadan) and Oloye Adetunji Olanihun (Asaju Olubadan), which created vacancies that led to a series of promotions.
In a statement announcing his elevation, Alabi expressed gratitude for the honour, noting that the vacancies created by the deaths allowed him to skip the position of Bada Olubadan. With his elevation, the positions of Jagun Olubadan and Ajia Olubadan are now vacant.
The Olubadan succession line is a unique traditional system in Yoruba land, where chiefs ascend through a defined hierarchy to the throne. The system is divided into two lines: the Otun (Right) and the Osi (Left) lines, with each line having a series of chieftaincy titles that must be occupied before a chief can become Olubadan. Akin Alabi’s elevation to Aare Onibon Olubadan places him closer to the Otun line, which is one of the two lines of succession to the Olubadan throne.
The position of Aare Onibon Olubadan is a senior chieftaincy title in the Olubadan system, and Alabi’s promotion is a significant step in his traditional career. The Olubadan chieftaincy system is one of the most respected traditional institutions in Yoruba land, and promotions within the system are highly revered. Akin Alabi’s elevation is a recognition of his contributions to Ibadanland and his commitment to the development of the community.
As Aare Onibon Olubadan, Alabi will play a more prominent role in the traditional administration of Ibadanland, advising the Olubadan on matters affecting the city and its people. His promotion is also expected to inspire other young Yoruba leaders to take an active interest in traditional institutions and community development. With the vacancies created by the recent deaths, the Olubadan succession line is expected to undergo further reshuffling in the coming months.