Ooni Backs Prince Abimbola Owoade As New Alaafin Amid Kingmakers Opposition
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has endorsed Prince Abimbola Owoade as the Alaafin-elect of Oyo, despite opposition from Oyo kingmakers.
Governor Seyi Makinde had announced Owoade’s appointment on Friday, a decision that has sparked controversy among the traditional council.
Five prominent kingmakers have rejected the governor’s appointment, labeling it illegal and a violation of established procedures.
They argue that the selection process bypassed traditional protocols, which require the kingmakers to choose the new Alaafin through a majority vote, as stipulated in the Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.
Despite the opposition, Governor Makinde has defended his decision, maintaining that due process was followed in the appointment of Prince Owoade.
Meanwhile, in a statement on Saturday by Comrade Moses Olafare, spokesperson to the Ooni, Oba Ogunwusi congratulated Prince Owoade, urging him to collaborate with other contestants for the progress of Oyo town.
He emphasised the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among all stakeholders in the community.
According to the statement, “The House of Oduduwa, under the leadership of Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, congratulates the Alaafin-elect, Prince Abimbola Owoade, on his appointment as the new custodian of the timeless heritage of Oyo Kingdom. This monumental decision heralds a new era of prosperity, unity, and cultural preservation for the great people of Oyo.
“The Ooni who doubles as Co- Chair, National Council Of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) and Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), commends the patience displayed by the royal family, kingmakers, and the people of Oyo home and in diaspora, both at home and in the diaspora throughout this sacred process which lasted over two years, praising the Oyo State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, for providing the enabling environment and supporting the smooth transition that has now birthed a new royal era.
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“Historically, Oyo and Ile-Ife share an unbreakable bond rooted in divine origin and Yoruba Cultural Preservation. Oyo remains a very important crown jewel in Yoruba land. This interconnected lineage emphasizes the significance of the Alaafin’s throne, which remains a vital pillar in the structure of Yoruba traditional governance and heritage. The appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade signifies the continuation of this sacred bond and the unwavering strength of the Yoruba cultural legacy.
“We are confident that the Alaafin-elect will build upon the enduring legacy of his predecessors particularly the immediate past Alaafin; Late Oba Lamidi Atanda Adeyemi III who had ruled Oyo with enviable and sterling leadership quality. Now that you have emerged victorious, you have become father of all who must really all other contestants for the growth of Oyo kingdom because, you can not do it alone, you must bring everyone on board, Oyomesi must remain united under your watch either those who supported you or those who didn’t support you, you must be magnanimous in victory. Please be ready to toe the path of peace with all the kingmakers without favouritism and partiality so that you can serve your people as a beacon of hope, justice, and development. Your ascension is a testament to the resilience of our traditions and the shared aspiration for progress across the Yoruba race.
“The House of Oduduwa calls on the sons and daughters of Oyo, from all walks of life, to rally around their new monarch and work together to uphold the glory of the kingdom. It is through collective support and collaboration that Oyo will continue to thrive and maintain its place as a cornerstone of Yoruba greatness.
“As we celebrate this historic moment, the House of Oduduwa reiterates its commitment to fostering unity among Yoruba monarchs, preserving our shared cultural identity, and ensuring the prosperity of all Yoruba people worldwide.”
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
