The Alaafin of Oyo-elect, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, is set to commence a 21-day traditional rite as the new monarch of the ancient Oyo town.
The rites follow his official installation on Monday, January 13, 2025, where Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented him with the staff of office.
Prince Owoade, who was announced on Friday as the Alaafin-elect, succeeds the 44th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away two years ago.
The ceremony at the state capital had in attendance the Oyomesi (kingmakers), top government officials, and prominent personalities from across Oyo State.
A source revealed that the new monarch has headed to Oyo town, where he will meet with the sons and daughters of the land before embarking on the mandatory rites for his ascension to the throne.
Governor Makinde, while addressing attendees, emphasized the significance of the Alaafin’s stool to the Yoruba race and reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness in the selection process. “The Alaafin stool is not for sale, and I ensured that my administration was transparent and uninfluenced in the selection of the new monarch,” he said.
He further prayed for peace, unity, and progress during Oba Owoade’s reign. The governor also warned against any attempts to destabilize the traditional institution in Oyo, promising swift government action against those found guilty.
In his response, Oba Owoade pledged to prioritize the development of Oyo town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba race at large.
The coronation ceremony is scheduled to hold in four weeks, officially marking the beginning of his reign as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
