Oyo to Hold New Alaafin’s Coronation on April 5, Forms 25-Member Committee

 The Oyo State Government has announced that the coronation of Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo will take place on April 5, 2025. This was disclosed on Monday in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Ademola Ojo, during the inauguration of a 25-member coronation committee.

Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier presented the staff of office to Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade on January 13, marking the end of nearly three years of vacancy since the passing of the former Alaafin, Lamidi Adeyemi III, in 2022.

Ojo, who chairs the committee, stated that it includes representatives from the Alaafin’s palace, the Oyo State Government, and other key stakeholders. He emphasized that sub-committees had been established to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated coronation ceremony.

“The event will attract dignitaries from across the country and beyond, including traditional rulers, government officials, and prominent figures from various sectors,” Ojo added.

Makinde, addressing concerns about the selection process, reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and non-interference. He revealed that he met Oba Owoade for the first time on January 12, a day before the official announcement, to avoid undue influence in the selection process.

“I did not know his profile or that of other contenders, and it was deliberate to ensure fairness,” Makinde stated. He also disclosed that political pressures had been exerted on him to approve the appointment before elections, but he stood firm in ensuring due process was followed.

In his congratulatory message, Makinde prayed for peace and unity in Oyoland and the Yoruba race under the new monarch.

Oba Owoade expressed gratitude to the governor, the Oyomesi, and all those involved in his selection. “I pledge to work for the progress of Oyo Town, Oyo State, and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

Abimbola Owoade, the incoming Alaafin (credit: Abubakar)

Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, traditional rulers, members of the Oyomesi, and top government officials such as Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, and Mrs. Olubunmi Oni.

The Alaafin’s stool remains a revered institution, symbolizing the unity of the Yoruba people, and the new monarch’s reign is anticipated to uphold the cultural heritage and progress of the region.