The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, has dissolved an unauthorized coronation committee that was allegedly formed without his approval. The monarch made this announcement in a statement released on Wednesday in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
The statement warned that any further meetings or activities related to the committee would be considered illegal and would not be tolerated. The Alaafin made it clear that any group planning events related to his coronation must first receive approval from his office.
The statement, titled “Coronation Committee Setup in Oyo Town—Notice of Cease & Desist,” read in part, “Let it be known to all and sundry that any committee or activity being set up or promoted without the prior consent and approval of His Imperial Majesty and his office shall be deemed unauthorized and will not be allowed to exist.”
Oba Owoade also directed all individuals involved in the unauthorized committee to immediately stop any further engagement or meetings. He stated that no official approval was given for such a group, and therefore, any discussions or plans regarding it must come to an end at once.
“The general public and the organisers of the so-called coronation committee being put together in Oyo Town are hereby notified that no approval or consent was given by the Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade I. Therefore, further meetings on this subject must stop immediately,” the statement added.
The monarch further stated that any fundraising activities for the coronation would be solely handled by the royal family. If the need arises, an official committee will be set up at the discretion of the palace. He noted that while the efforts of those involved were appreciated, they would be contacted if their assistance was needed in the future.
The Alaafin made it clear that any initiative or event linked to the coronation must be approved by his office before being made public.
