A historic chapter was written in the ancient Yoruba kingdom of Oyo on Saturday, as Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I was officially crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned for over 50 years until his passing on April 22, 2022.
The grand coronation ceremony, held at Olivet Baptist High School, attracted a large turnout of traditional rulers, political leaders, and well-wishers from across Nigeria. The event marked the culmination of a long-awaited and sometimes contentious selection process, followed by the traditional 21-day seclusion rites required before ascending the throne.
Oba Owoade’s ascension formally began in January when Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State presented him with the Staff of Office, ending years of speculation and legal wrangling that trailed the choice of a successor to the late Alaafin.
The coronation was a vibrant celebration of Yoruba heritage, featuring electrifying cultural performances, drumming, chants, and dances that showcased the depth of the region’s traditions.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, led by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, along with Governor Makinde, former Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, and Senator Yunus Akintunde of Oyo South.
The event also witnessed the presence of prominent monarchs such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, among others.
In his address, Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the peace and progress of Oyo, urging residents to support the new monarch. “We followed due process and tradition,” he said. “Now is the time for unity and support.”
Clad in regal white and gold agbada, Oba Abimbola Owoade I expressed deep appreciation to the people of Oyo for their unwavering support during the selection process. He called for unity and cooperation to advance the development of the kingdom, pledging to serve with wisdom and integrity.
“Let us walk together in peace and unity to build on the legacies of our forebears,” the monarch said.
Goodwill messages poured in from across the country, with President Tinubu, through his representative, commending the people of Oyo for their patience and calling on the new king to be a custodian of tradition and a beacon of progress.
Born 47 years ago into the royal Owoade-Agunloye family in Oyo, Oba Owoade is the son of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade of Agure Compound. His ascension is expected to bring renewed vigor and continuity to the revered Alaafin stool.
As the town of Oyo embraces its new monarch, the ancient kingdom looks ahead to a future guided by tradition, vision, and unity.
Long may you reign, Iku Baba Yeye.
