Alaafin’s coronation begins with cultural carnival parade in Oyo
By Adejayan Gbenga in Oyo
The coronation activities for the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade II, began on Monday in Oyo.
The events, which kicked off with a Cultural Carnival Parade at the Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium, Ode Aremo, featured vibrant displays of Yoruba art, music, food, and dance, aimed at uniting the people of Oyo and setting the stage for the ceremonies ahead.
Dignitaries at the event included the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun; Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi; Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Dr. Kunle Ogunmola; Alaafin’s Chief of Staff, Barr. Rotimi Osuntola; Local Organizing Committee Secretary, Funmiola Ajuawo; and filmmaker, Tunde Kelani, among others.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Kunle Ogunmola, while praying for the prosperity of Oyo town, appreciated the massive turnout for the occasion. He also urged the people to pay close attention to the myriad of activities lined up for the coronation program.
Similarly, the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, congratulated the people of Oyo on the emergence of a new monarch and noted that the event had commenced on a positive note with the cultural parade. He also officially commissioned the Oyo National Park.
The coronation activities, which will run until Saturday, April 12, 2025, will continue tomorrow with a Historic Tree Planting event and a Public Lecture/Colloquium at the School of Surveying in Oyo.
