Updated: Oba Owoade crowned as 46th Alaafin of Oyo
By Adejayan Gbenga in Oyo
Oba Abimbola Owoade has been crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The coronation ceremony took place on Saturday at Olivet Baptist Heights in Oyo town, where Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff of office and led a host of dignitaries, including notable Nigerians.
Dignitaries present at the coronation included the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of the Yoruba, Iba Gani Adams, among others.
Speaking at the event, Makinde said: “On the 10th of January, 2025, I affixed my signature to the recommendation of the Oyo Mesi for Oba Abimbola Owoade to be the new Alaafin of Oyo.
“And on the 13th of January, 2025, I presented the certificate of office to our Kabiyesi. I have fulfilled my responsibilities since then, but today, I officially present to the entire world the new Alaafin of Oyo.”
The governor, who confirmed that there had been efforts to compromise the selection process, urged those seeking to challenge the appointment in court to stop wasting their time.
