Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
The announcement was made on Friday in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade. He explained that Prince Owoade was chosen by the Oyomesi, the council of Oyo kingmakers, following detailed consultations and traditional divinations.
“After extensive consultations and divinations, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade was recommended by the Oyomesi and has been approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” the statement read.
Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, emphasized that the appointment resolves the disputes and controversies that followed the passing of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who died on April 22, 2022.
“This decision brings an end to the social and legal conflicts that have surrounded the succession process since the transition of Oba Adeyemi. We call on the people of Oyo State to rally around the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this significant event,” Ojo said.
Oyelade expressed confidence that the new Alaafin’s reign would bring peace, development, and unity to the Oyo Kingdom.
“We are hopeful that his reign will promote harmony, prosperity, and progress while preserving the rich traditions of the Alaafin institution,” he added.
The government has encouraged residents of Oyo State to support the new monarch as he begins his leadership.
The selection process to succeed Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III had been contentious, with Governor Makinde recently initiating a fresh process. However, five prominent members of the Oyomesi opposed this directive.
The dissenting kingmakers include High Chief Yusuf Akinade (Basorun of Oyo), High Chief Wakeel Akindele (Lagunna of Oyo), High Chief Hamzat Yusuf (Akinniku of Oyo), and two warrant chiefs representing the Asipa and Alapinni titles. They claimed that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin had already been selected as the Alaafin-elect and referenced ongoing legal proceedings about the succession.
Their legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju, criticized the governor’s action as unlawful and urged the government to halt the process until the court delivers a judgment on the matter.
