Oba Owoade Crowned 46th Alaafin As Tinubu Seeks Support For Monarch

Oyo town came alive on Saturday as dignitaries from across Nigeria converged to witness the coronation of Oba Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

Some of the dignitaries at the event included 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.

Royalties like the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar; Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi; Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola; Olu of Igboora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye and Asigangan of Igangan, Oba Rafiu Ariwoola added grandeur and cultural depth to the occasion.

The coronation, held at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, marked a new chapter in the rich history of the Oyo empire, following the passing of the 45th Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, in April 2022.
The staff of office had earlier been presented to Oba Owoade by Makinde at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, the state capital, in January.

Oba Owoade completed the compulsory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi last Saturday, March 29.

Speaking at the event, Tinubu described the Alaafin of Oyo stool as a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

Tinubu noted that the throne is not just a seat of authority but a living institution that embodies Yoruba history, values, and aspirations.

He said the Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future.

“Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting governance.
“The President has always held the Alaafin in high esteem, recognising the role of traditional rulers in nation-building. As you assume this sacred responsibility, we are confident that your wisdom, leadership, and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large.

“This historic occasion is not just a celebration for the great people of the ancient city but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole. The Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

“Today’s historic event is significant for many reasons. The Oyo empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural influence”, the President stated.

Tinubu, therefore, charged the people of the ancient city to rally behind the new Alaafin, support his vision, and uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and development.

The president was confident that the new Alaafin’s wisdom, leadership, and dedication would further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large.

He urged the Alaafin to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes, saying “You are more than a king, you are also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride.”

Makinde, while presenting the new king to the mammoth crowd said, “On the 10th of January, 2025, I applied my signature for the recommendation of Oyo Mesi for Oba Akeem Owoade to be a new Alaafin of Oyo. And on the 13th of January, 2025, I presented a certificate of office to our Kabiyesi. I have done my work since, but today, I officially present to the entire world, the Alaafin of Oyo.

“Those who said they have not been told or heard or who are running up and down should come around and see the new Alaafin of Oyo.”

In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade thanked everyone for their unwavering support.

“I promise to always be for you just as you have always been for me,” he promised.