Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially approved Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, bringing an end to months of speculation and disputes surrounding the historic throne.
The announcement was made on Friday through a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
According to Oyelade, Prince Owoade’s selection followed thorough consultations and traditional rites conducted by the Oyomesi, the revered kingmakers of Oyo.
“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 decision, describing it as a resolution to the legal and traditional conflicts that arose after the death of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, in April 2022.
Ojo urged citizens to support the new monarch, emphasizing the importance of unity during this transitional period.
However, the announcement has not been without opposition. Five prominent kingmakers, including High Chief Yusuf Akinade and High Chief Wakeel Akindele, have rejected the appointment.
They claim that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin had already been selected as the Alaafin-elect and cited ongoing court proceedings challenging the governor’s decision.
Despite these objections, the state government has expressed confidence that Prince Owoade’s reign will usher in an era of peace and prosperity.
