Alaafin Owoade celebrates 50th birthday with table tennis match

By Adejayan Gbenga –

As part of events marking his 50th birthday, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, on Thursday engaged in a novelty table tennis match with his longtime friend and federal lawmaker, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, who represents Afijio/Oyo East/Oyo West/Atiba Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives.

The match took place at the popular Durban Stadium in Oyo Town, drawing a crowd of excited indigenes who cheered as the monarch showcased his athletic skills against the Oyo lawmaker.

Some residents, speaking with Western Post, expressed pride in the sporting heritage of Oyo and called for the ancient town to be declared a “sports township.” They recalled that the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, was also a renowned boxer, and praised Oba Owoade for continuing that legacy through his passion for sports.

They also commended Hon. Adeyemi for his unwavering support of the king and his active participation in royal activities.

The event served as both a celebration of the monarch’s birthday and a tribute to the town’s rich cultural and athletic traditions.

The indigenes offered prayers for Oba Owoade, wishing him a long, peaceful, and successful reign.