“Oyo Governor Presents Staff of Office to Alaafin-Designate Abimbola Owoade

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, officially presented the staff of office and certificate of appointment to the Alaafin-designate, Abimbola Owoade, on Monday. During the brief ceremony held in Ibadan, Makinde announced that the formal coronation would take place in four weeks.

Makinde condemned attempts by some individuals to corrupt the Alaafin selection process, including allegations of bribery, warning that anyone involved would be prosecuted. He stressed that Owoade’s selection as the new Alaafin was free of political influence or government interference.

“The Alaafin stool is of great significance not only to Oyo State but to the entire Yoruba race,” Makinde remarked. “Under my leadership, the stool is not for sale, and it will not be politicized.”

The governor clarified that he had not met Owoade before the ceremony, intentionally keeping himself unaware of the profiles of the candidates, to avoid any bias. He vowed to ensure the royal institution remains free from financial manipulation.

Makinde also issued a stern warning to those attempting to destabilize the traditional institution in Oyo, promising that their actions would not go unpunished.

The appointment of Owoade, who succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III after his passing in April 2022, was celebrated by a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, traditional leaders, and Oyo indigenes. Owoade’s reign is expected to focus on preserving culture, empowering youth, and fostering economic growth in the Oyo Kingdom.

The newly appointed Alaafin began his 21-day traditional rites on Monday, marking the start of his path to the throne.