Symbol Of Cultural Pride: Jubilations As Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Is Crowned 46th Alaafin Of Oyo

The historic occasion was personally attended by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, who represented President Bola Tinubu; Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment, Senator Yunus Akintunde; and first female Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Mosurat Sunmonu, and people from all walks of life.

Royal fathers in attendance included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomosol and, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, and representative of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams; and Eze Ndigbo of Yorubaland, Eze James Oramadike, were also dignitaries that witnessed the elaborate coronation ceremony.

Oba Owoade I succeeded the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who joined his ancestors on April 22, 2022, after spending about 52 years on the throne.

President Tinubu, who spoke through Adelabu described the royal stool of Alaafin of Oyo as a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

Tinubu stated that the historic occasion was not just a celebration for the great people of Oyo but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.

“Today’s historic event is significant for many reasons. The Oyo Empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural influence.

“The Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future,” he said.

Tinubu noted that the Alaafin’s throne is not just a seat of authority, but a living institution that embodies the history, values, and aspirations of Yoruba race.

“Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting governance.”

Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to preservation of cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that would promote rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength.

“As you mount the throne of your forebears, we recognise that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but also a key figure who expectedly should serve as a bridge between traditional institutions and modern governance.

“The Alaafin is expected to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes, most importantly, as the Alaafin, you are more than a king, you are also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride.”

Governor Seyi Makinde, in his address, congratulated the people of Oyo Kingdom on the occasion, and told them: “Your patience and resilience have paid off. This is why today has become a reality.

“This ancient town is the custodian of rich history and tradition, and it will continue to play a pivotal role in the growth and development of our dear state.

“So, today is indeed the beginning of great things to come to the zone, not just under this administration, even well into the future, because no matter what happens to us as humans, no one can take away our history. So, this is a day for all of us, the Yoruba, both at home and in Diaspora to rejoice.

“Let me use this opportunity to ask that the Kabiyesi and the Oyomesi (Kingmakers) work to ensure that the traditions around the ascension of the Alaafin throne remain sacrosanct. Whatever needs to be done to protect the throne should be done so that the lacuna that we experienced these past years will never occur again.

“So, everyone that is angry and threatening that they would go to court, they should go and ask the people of Eruwa; after almost 20 years, court removed Eleruwa. They went through the process again, the same person emerged as Eleruwa.

“So, whoever goes to court, don’t go there and waste your time and our time. God has chosen for us. The Ifa approved of it, Oyo approved of it, Oyo State approved it, and Seyi Makinde approved it.