The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has reshuffled his palace leadership team, appointing a new Chief of Staff and promoting his former chief aide to Special Adviser.
In a statement released Wednesday by Rotimi Osuntola, the monarch’s former Chief of Staff who now assumes the advisory role, the royal house announced Mr. Bayo Ajibade as the new Chief of Staff effective immediately. Osuntola had served in the position from January until early April 2025.
“It is with deep humility that I accept this new responsibility as Special Adviser to the Throne,” Osuntola stated. “From the beginning of His Majesty’s reign, I’ve been privileged to support him financially, intellectually and morally alongside others committed to preserving Oyo’s royal legacy.”
The statement highlighted Osuntola’s contributions during the transition period, including assembling the palace team and facilitating a smooth coronation process. He pledged continued dedication to Yoruba land’s development, drawing on his decades of leadership experience in multinational organizations.
The new Chief of Staff, Bayo Ajibade, takes charge of palace administration amid calls for unity from the royal household. “I encourage all at home and abroad to extend their full support to Mr. Ajibade,” Osuntola added, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in maintaining Oyo’s cultural heritage.
The appointments come as the ancient kingdom strengthens its governance structures, with the Alaafin continuing to play a pivotal role in Yoruba traditional affairs. Observers note the careful balancing of experience and fresh perspectives in the new palace arrangement.
Osuntola concluded by thanking royal family members, community leaders and Oyo indigenes for their trust, vowing to help build “a future that honors our past while uplifting coming generations.” The palace has not yet announced specific portfolios for the new appointees.
