January 10, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has given a nod to the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
This announcement was made public through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, on Friday.
According to Oyelade, Prince Owoade’s selection was the culmination of extensive consultations and traditional divinations conducted by the Oyo kingmakers, the Oyomesi.
“Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations, has been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” the statement read.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, welcomed the announcement, stating that it brings an end to the disputes that arose following the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, in April 2022.
“This decision has put to rest all the socio-legal controversies that have arisen since the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We urge the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this historic moment,” Ojo said.
Oyelade expressed optimism about the new Alaafin’s reign, saying, “We pray that his reign brings progress and harmony to the people of Oyo and strengthens the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution.”
However, not everyone is pleased with the appointment. Five prominent kingmakers rejected Governor Makinde’s directive for a fresh selection process, insisting that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin is already the Alaafin-elect.
Their legal counsel, Adekunle Sobaloju, described the governor’s actions as illegal and called for the process to be suspended until the court resolves the matter.
