Oyo inaugurates committee for Alaafin of Oyo’s coronation

The Oyo State Government has inaugurated a committee to oversee the coronation of the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, as preparations for the historic event commence in earnest.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government confirmed that the inaugural meeting of the committee was presided over by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo.

The Alaafin Coronation Committee includes key government officials, legislators, and representatives of the royal family. Among them are four members of the Oyo State Executive Council: Professor Musibau Babatunde (Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning), Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun (Commissioner for Culture and Tourism), Prince Dotun Oyelade, and Hon. Ademola Ojo.

Also serving on the committee are three Oyo State House of Assembly members: Hon. Gbenga Oyekola (Atiba Constituency), Hon. Rahman Olorunpoto (Oyo East/Oyo West Constituency), and Hon. Oladeji Oparinde (Afijio Constituency).

In addition, four local government chairmen—Hon. Akeem Olukitibi (Afijio), Hon. Wahab Adetunji (Oyo West), Hon. Sola Oluokun (Atiba), and Hon. Olufemi Aikomo (Oyo East)—are part of the committee.

Other members include seven representatives of Oba Owoade’s family, religious leaders, and other stakeholders tasked with ensuring a smooth coronation ceremony in line with the traditions of Oyo.

Hon. Ademola Ojo emphasized that preparations are in full swing to guarantee a successful coronation that upholds the customs and heritage of the Oyo people.

Meanwhile, Prince Dotun Oyelade highlighted Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s commitment to traditional institutions, noting that his administration has overseen the coronation of 10 obas and 40 baales in the past five years.

Governor Makinde has urged all involved in the coronation to remain diligent and committed to the success of the event. His government formally presented Oba Owoade with the instruments of office three weeks ago, officially confirming his selection as the new Alaafin.

However, the selection of Oba Owoade has faced opposition from the Oyo Mesi and the Atiba 9 royal families, who have contested his appointment.

Governor Makinde, however, has maintained that his administration did not interfere in the selection process and remains committed to fairness and transparency. He reiterated that the Alaafin stool is a revered institution, not just for Oyo Town but for the entire Yoruba race.

The coronation date is expected to be announced soon.