Alaafin Owoade moves into historic Oke Afin palace
By Adejayan Gbenga
The Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, is set to formally move into the ancient Alaafin’s Palace at Oke Afin in Oyo town today, January 20, 2026, marking a historic milestone in the preservation and revitalisation of the kingdom’s cultural heritage.
The development was announced in a statement on Tuesday by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Mr Bode Durojaiye, who described the palace as not only a historical monument but also a living museum that reflects the grandeur and complexity of Yoruba civilisation.
According to the statement, the palace is an architectural masterpiece, featuring courtyards, halls, and shrines that have been meticulously maintained over centuries. Each section of the palace carries cultural significance, from the Ile Orun, where the Alaafin’s ancestors are honoured, to the Oju Oba, where the monarch conducts official duties and receives his subjects.
Prior to the ascension of Oba Owoade, the palace had fallen into disrepair, with many of its structures vandalized and in urgent need of rehabilitation.
The dilapidated state of the ancient edifice highlighted the need for immediate restoration to preserve its historical and cultural value.
Following his enthronement, Oba Owoade undertook extensive restoration efforts to safeguard the Kingdom’s cultural heritage. The rehabilitation work, supervised by the Alaafin’s Personal Assistant, Reverend Dr. Kolade Oladele, focused on restoring both the structural integrity and historical authenticity of the palace.
The Alaafin’s Palace, the statement further highlighted, continues to serve as the traditional seat of the Alaafin, regarded as the Superior Ruler of the Oyo Empire, a historically powerful and influential West African state. It remains a symbol of royal authority and cultural pride for the Yoruba people.
Beyond its historical significance, the palace hosts traditional festivals, ceremonies, and official functions, attracting visitors from across Nigeria and beyond. Its preservation underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting Yoruba traditions for future generations.
