Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. The announcement was made in a statement on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, who highlighted that Owoade’s selection followed extensive consultations and traditional divinations by the Oyo kingmakers, the Oyomesi. “Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations, has been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” the statement read.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, also emphasized that the announcement puts an end to the legal and social disputes that followed the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who died on April 22, 2022. “This decision has put to rest all the socio-legal controversies that have arisen since the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We urge the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this historic moment,” Ojo stated.
Oyelade expressed optimism that Owoade’s reign would bring peace, unity, and prosperity to the Oyo Kingdom. “We pray that his reign brings progress and harmony to the people of Oyo and strengthens the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution,” he added.
Following the death of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, the search for his successor was marred by controversy. While Governor Makinde recently initiated a fresh selection process, five prominent kingmakers rejected the move on Thursday. These kingmakers, including the Basorun of Oyo and other senior chiefs, maintained that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin is already the Alaafin-elect, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
Legal counsel for the kingmakers, Adekunle Sobaloju, criticized the governor’s actions as illegal and called for the process to be suspended until the court resolves the matter.
