A new era has begun in the ancient town, Oyo, Oyo State, as the new Alaafin, Oba Akeem Owoade has been crowned.
Governor Seyi Makinde recorded another history on Saturday as he presented Oba Owoade at a grand ceremony held at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo.
Oba Abimbola Owoade is the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, coming after the legendary Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who died on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
Many dignitaries graced the occasion, including the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and Aare Oona Kankanfo of Yoruba, Iba Gani Adams, among others
Addressing a large crowd during the event, Makinde explained that the formal presentation was a culmination of earlier legal and traditional processes.
“On the 10th of January, 2025, I pended my signature for the recommendation of Oyo Mesi for Oba Akeem Owoade to be a new Alaafin of Oyo,” Makinde said.
“And on the 13th of January, 2025, I presented a certificate of office to our Kabiyesi. I have done my work since, but today, I officially present to the entire world, the Alaafin of Oyo.
“Those who said they have not been told or heard or who are running up and down should come around and see the new Alaafin of Oyo.”
“I promise to always be for you just as you have always been for me,” he said.
