Oyo Town was abuzz with excitement on Saturday as dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered to witness the coronation of Oba Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The historic event, held at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, marked a new era in the Oyo Kingdom, following the passing of the 45th Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, in April 2022.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin; former Deputy Governor, Taofeek Arapaja; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams. Notable traditional rulers such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, and several others were also present to celebrate the momentous occasion.
The coronation comes after Oba Owoade completed the traditional 21-day rites known as Oro Ipebi on March 29, 2025, and had previously been presented with the staff of office by Governor Makinde in January.
In his address, President Tinubu described the Alaafin of Oyo stool as a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires. He emphasized the vital role traditional rulers play in promoting peace, cultural identity, and governance, especially during critical times in Nigeria’s history. “The Alaafin stool is not just a seat of authority, but a living institution that embodies Yoruba history, values, and aspirations,” Tinubu said.
The President further urged the people of Oyo to rally behind the new Alaafin, supporting his vision for peace, tolerance, and development in the region. Tinubu also highlighted the importance of the Alaafin’s role in mediating conflicts and fostering unity among the Yoruba people.
Governor Seyi Makinde, while presenting the new monarch to the large crowd, noted that the process of selecting Oba Owoade was thorough and transparent. He humorously addressed those who were uncertain about the new Alaafin’s legitimacy, saying, “Those who said they have not been told or heard should come around and see the new Alaafin of Oyo.”
In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade expressed his gratitude to the people of Oyo for their unwavering support and pledged to serve them faithfully. “I promise to always be for you just as you have always been for me,” he said, assuring his subjects of his commitment to the welfare and progress of the kingdom.
This historic coronation signifies not only a new leadership chapter for Oyo but also reinforces the cultural heritage and traditions of the Yoruba people.
