Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
The announcement was made on Friday in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade. According to the statement, Owoade’s selection followed extensive consultations and traditional divinations conducted by the Oyo kingmakers, known as the Oyomesi.
“After thorough consultations and divinations, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade has been recommended by the Oyomesi and officially approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” the statement read.
Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, further clarified that this decision brings an end to the legal and social disputes that have arisen since the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022.
“This decision puts to rest the socio-legal controversies that have surrounded the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We call on the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this significant moment,” Ojo said.
Oyelade expressed hope that the new Alaafin’s reign would bring peace, unity, and prosperity to the Oyo Kingdom, and strengthen the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution.
“We pray that his reign fosters progress, harmony, and continued development for the people of Oyo,” he added.
The people of Oyo State have been urged to support their new monarch as he begins his leadership of the ancient kingdom.
The selection of Owoade follows a contentious process after the death of the previous Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. The succession process sparked significant controversy, and while Makinde directed a fresh selection process, five prominent kingmakers rejected this move on Thursday.
The dissenting kingmakers, including the Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade; the Lagunna of Oyo, High Chief Wakeel Akindele; the Akinniku of Oyo, High Chief Hamzat Yusuf; a warrant chief representing the Asipa of Oyo, Chief Wahab Oyetunji; and a warrant chief representing the Alapinni of Oyo, Chief Gbadebo Mufutau, all asserted that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin should be recognized as the Alaafin-elect. They cited ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the selection process.
The kingmakers’ legal counsel, Adekunle Sobaloju, condemned the governor’s actions as unlawful and urged that the process be suspended until the court resolves the matter.
