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By Ayoofe Aiyedatiwa
Governor Seyi Makinde has presented the Staff of Office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade.
The governor made the presentation at his office in Ibadan, the state capital, Agodi, Ibadan, on Monday.
Mainwhile the Oyomesi, has come out to say that they are not in agreement with the governor’s stance.
They are saying Owoade was not picked by divination when Ifa was consulted, which have dire consequences.
Prince Owoade who is based in Canada , YOUNEWS learnt came into town, to get a letter of appointment from the state government today and immediately resume work as Alaafin.
Makinde approved Owoade’s appointment in an announcement made in a Friday statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
Owoade’s appointment as the 46th Alaafin-elect drew an esteemed audience of dignitaries, traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, and jubilant Oyo indigenes.
The historic ceremony opened with prayers by Islamic, Christian, and traditional clerics, concluding with vibrant music and cultural performances—symbolising a momentous chapter in Oyo’s rich history.
Presenting the insignia of office, Makinde hailed the Alaafin-elect as a leader destined to preserve and elevate the cultural and historical legacy of the Oyo Kingdom.
Describing the Alaafin as more than a traditional ruler but a custodian of a rich heritage, the governor expressed confidence that the monarch would lead with wisdom, integrity, and unwavering dedication to unity in the Oyo Kingdom.
He said, “We are assured that Oba Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a strong commitment to fostering unity.”
In his acceptance speech, Owoade committed to prioritising the development of the kingdom and the well-being of its people.
“I will devote myself to the advancement and prosperity of the Oyo Kingdom while ensuring that the traditions and values that have sustained us for generations remain steadfast,” he declared.
Owoade’s ascension follows the passing of the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in April 2022, who ruled the Oyo Kingdom for an extraordinary five decades.
Oyomesi is saying, in line with their traditional role as kingmakers and in accordance with the 1961 Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration have unanimously appoints Prince Lukman Adelodun Ayinla Gbadegesin as the new Alaafin.
YOUNEWS is aware that the governor’s decision to withhold his assent has thrown the process into chaos.
After a rigorous and transparent selection process, where 82 aspirants were interviewed, Prince Gbadegesin emerged as the clear and unanimous choice.
Sources said, this was a significant milestone in the process, as it marked the culmination of a thorough and careful evaluation of all the candidates. Subsequently, the Atiba Local Government formally conveyed the appointment of Prince Gbadegesin to the Governor, in strict accordance with the provisions of the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, which directly governs the selection and appointment of traditional rulers in the state.
Other prominent sources told us “It is however alarming that the governor is withholding his assent, especially since there is no official petition or complaint from any of the parties involved. The two Oyomesi members who suddenly rejected the process have not provided any evidence or explanation for their claims, and it is unclear why their opinion is being prioritized over the majority.
“The Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration is clear: a candidate with a majority among the kingmakers shall be proclaimed the Alaafin. With five living members of Oyomesi, and only two complaining, it is unfair to deny Prince Gbadegesin the opportunity to ascend to the throne.
“The people of Oyo State and the Yoruba nation at large are watching with keen interest as this drama unfolds.
“We urge the governor to do the right thing and respect our tradition. The selection of the new Alaafin is not a political game, but a sacred process that requires respect and dignity.
“We therefore strongly call on the governor to let the selection of the new Alaafin stand. He should respect the tradition, the will of the Oyomesi, and the rule of law. The people of Oyo State deserve nothing less.
