Ibadan – The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has elevated the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Oyo State for the 2027 election, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, from Ekarun Balogun to Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland.
Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, announced the development in a statement shared on his X account on Saturday.
He explained that he was unable to attend the elevation ceremony held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, because he is currently in the Holy Land for Umrah.
Alli expressed appreciation to Oba Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, and members of the Olubadan Advisory Council for the honour and confidence reposed in him.
He also thanked the Mogajis, traditional rulers, Baales, political associates and friends who represented him at the ceremony.
The senator described the elevation as a call to greater service and responsibility rather than merely an advancement in traditional title.
Alli was elevated from Maye Balogun to Ekarun Balogun in August 2024 by the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
In March 2026, reports indicated that the Oyo State Government had approved his elevation to the rank of a beaded crown-wearing Oba.
His coronation, alongside two other high chiefs, subsequently took place in April, although Alli was absent from the ceremony.
In his latest statement, Alli pledged to approach his new position with a renewed commitment to service, unity, peace and development in Ibadanland.
