Makinde vows to prosecute bribe collectors in Alaafin selection process

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has vowed to prosecute individuals who allegedly accepted bribes during the selection process for the new Alaafin of Oyo.

Makinde made the pledge during the presentation of instruments of office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, emphasizing that his administration would not tolerate any attempts to undermine the revered Alaafin stool.

The governor stated that he deliberately refrained from interfering in the appointment process to uphold transparency and fairness.

He said:
“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 clear that the stool would not be for sale. It is not something to be toyed with.

“I met Prince Owoade for the first time yesterday. I had never spoken to him before. I didn’t know his profile or that of any of the other princes vying for the stool. This was deliberate, as I did not want my opinion to influence the process.

“When we assumed office in 2019, there were challenges with the traditional institution in Ibadanland, and we resolved them to everyone’s satisfaction. When it came time to approve the selection of the Okere, some people approached me, saying, ‘This is our friend.’

“They mentioned someone’s political affiliation, saying he was APC. I told them it didn’t matter whether someone was APC or PDP. Decisions regarding traditional institutions should not be based on politics.

“I always advise people not to ruin themselves over politics because, in reality, politicians interact behind closed doors. Politics is a game during elections, but governance is serious business. Governance involves making decisions that affect millions of people, and we cannot afford to play politics with it.

“When the Alaafin stool became vacant in 2022, there was pressure on me to approve the appointment before the election, with some saying Oyo people wouldn’t vote for me otherwise.

“I responded that the people should vote as they wish, but I would do what was right—and the people of Oyo voted for me massively. Oyo will continue to support me because we prioritize integrity.

“For those still bent on destabilizing the traditional institution in Oyo, the government will not relent. They will be prosecuted for the money they collected, except they seek forgiveness from Kabiyesi. If he forgives them, I will follow suit.”

Makinde also announced that the coronation of the new Alaafin would take place in four weeks.