Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State formally presented the staff of office to Abimbola Akeem Owoade, marking his ascension as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The ceremony took place on Monday morning at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. This historic occasion comes nearly three years after the passing of Alaafin Lamidi Adeyemi III in 2022.
During the event, Governor Makinde emphasized the significance of the Alaafin stool for the Yoruba race, reiterating his administration’s commitment to transparency in the selection process. He stated:
“The Alaafin stool is very important not just to Oyo Town or Oyo State but to the entire Yoruba race. Under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool would not be for sale. It is not a stool for us to toil with.”
Makinde revealed that he deliberately avoided personal involvement in the selection process to maintain impartiality, meeting the new Alaafin for the first time on January 12, 2025. He underscored his administration’s principle of governance devoid of political interference, ensuring that traditional institutions retain their sanctity.
Governor Makinde congratulated Oba Owoade and expressed hope that his reign would bring unity, progress, and development to Oyo Town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba race worldwide. The governor announced that the official coronation ceremony would take place in four weeks.
In his acceptance speech, Alaafin Owoade pledged to prioritize the development of Oyo Town, Oyo State, and Nigeria. He expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde, the Oyomesi (the traditional kingmakers), and all stakeholders involved in his selection.
Hon. Demola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, lauded the governor’s dedication to ensuring a thorough and fair selection process. He also praised the Oyomesi for their diligence.
The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Deputy Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, traditional rulers, members of the Oyomesi, and notable Yoruba cultural figures such as Professor Wande Abimbola and his wife, Iyanifa Ajisebo Abimbola.
The presentation of the staff of office signifies a new chapter for the Alaafin stool, a revered institution in Yoruba culture. As the 46th Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade is tasked with upholding the rich heritage of Oyo and fostering unity among the Yoruba people.
Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to preserving traditional institutions and ensuring they remain symbols of cultural pride and integrity for future generations.
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