UPDATED: Makinde Presents Staff Of Office To New Alaafin Of Oyo
Governor Seyi Makinde has presented the Staff of Office to the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade, on Monday, marking the official beginning of his reign.
The ceremony took place at the Governor’s office in Ibadan, the state capital.
Governor Makinde had approved Owoade’s appointment in a statement on Friday as announced by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
The new Alaafin was warmly welcomed by an assembly of dignitaries, traditional leaders, religious figures, and Oyo indigenes who celebrated this historic occasion with prayers, music, and cultural performances.
The ceremony opened with prayers by Islamic, Christian, and traditional clerics and concluded with vibrant music and cultural performances—symbolising a momentous chapter in Oyo’s rich history.
“Alaafin of Oyo stool is important to the entire Yoruba race. I met the Prince for the first time yesterday. Those who collected money to destabilize our traditional institution will be prosecuted.” – Governor Seyi Makinde at the presentation of instruments of office to the New… pic.twitter.com/nGp5cuxTGU
— Oyo Affairs (@Oyoaffairs) January 13, 2025
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In his address, Governor Makinde praised the Alaafin-elect, emphasizing his role not only as a traditional ruler but also as a custodian of Oyo’s rich heritage.
He expressed confidence that Owoade would lead the kingdom with wisdom, integrity, and a strong commitment to unity, stating, “We are assured that Oba Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a strong commitment to fostering unity.”
Owoade, in his acceptance speech, pledged to prioritize the development of Oyo Kingdom and ensure the preservation of its traditions.
He declared, “I will devote myself to the advancement and prosperity of the Oyo Kingdom while ensuring that the traditions and values that have sustained us for generations remain steadfast.”
Owoade’s ascension follows the passing of the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in April 2022, who ruled the Oyo Kingdom for an extraordinary five decades.
The new monarch’s reign is expected to focus on cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and the economic development of Oyo.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
