
In a significant development, the Oyo State Government has announced the approval of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. This decision was made after thorough consultations and divinations, as recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde.
Key Highlights
- Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, a Nigerian and Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been approved as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
- The appointment was made after thorough consultations and divinations, as recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde.
- The new Alaafin is a descendant of the prominent and royal family of Owoade-Agunloye in Oyo town.
- He holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University, respectively.
- The date for the coronation process will be announced subsequently, after due consultations with relevant traditional and official stakeholders.
Background
The appointment of the new Alaafin of Oyo has been a subject of controversy and legal battles since the demise of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022. However, with the approval of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Oyo State Government has put an end to all the socio-legal controversies surrounding the appointment.
Reaction
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ademola Ojo, has called on all citizens of Oyo State to join the government in celebrating this momentous occasion and lend their support to the new Alaafin of Oyo. The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, has also prayed that the reign of the new Alaafin will bring peace, prosperity, and unity to the historic Oyo Kingdom.