By: Adewuyi Adegbite
The ancient city of Oyo was vibrant with celebration on Saturday, April 5, 2025, as Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I was formally crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The historic event drew dignitaries and prominent figures from across Nigeria and beyond, marking a new chapter in the legacy of the revered throne.
Prior to his coronation, Oba Owoade I received the staff and instrument of office from the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on January 13, 2025, at the State Secretariat in Ibadan. His emergence, however, was not without controversy.
Oba Owoade I’s selection defied the recommendation of the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers, who have historically played a pivotal role in the succession process. Governor Makinde alleged that some members of the Oyomesi had been compromised by financial inducements from one of the contestants, prompting the state to intervene. According to the governor, the throne of the Alaafin was not for sale.
In response to the alleged misconduct, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) interrogated the kingmakers, although the findings were never made public. Dissatisfied with the situation, Governor Makinde commissioned renowned Ifa priest, Professor Wande Abimbola, to consult the oracle for divine guidance. Based on the Ifa’s revelation, Oba Owoade I was selected and endorsed as the rightful heir to the throne.
This bypassing of the traditional selection process has since led to legal action by the Oyomesi and their preferred candidate, who claim that the appointment amounts to an unconstitutional imposition. While the state government’s stance against corruption is commendable, its overwhelming interference in traditional matters raises concerns about the future of cultural institutions.
Historically, the Oyomesi have served as the council of elders and custodians of Oyo’s cultural checks and balances, especially in ensuring the Alaafin’s powers are not abused. Their sidelining sets a troubling precedent. While past Alaafin successions were also marked by contention, the autonomy granted to the Oyomesi typically provided a measure of legitimacy and peace.
Oba Owoade I now bears the heavy responsibility of bridging this divide. To ensure a peaceful and successful reign, he must urgently extend an olive branch to the aggrieved Oyomesi members and fellow contestants. Reconciliation will not only preserve the unity of the kingdom but also uphold the dignity of the Alaafin’s institution, which is increasingly vulnerable to political interference.
The late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi III left behind a formidable legacy. As a custodian of Yoruba culture and a staunch defender of the Alaafin’s prestige, Oba Adeyemi III countered political overreach with intellect, diplomacy, and strategic alliances. His reign elevated Oyo’s cultural, political, and intellectual relevance both nationally and internationally.
Oba Owoade I is now tasked with building upon that legacy. The Yoruba maxim, “Ajise bi Oyo laari, Oyo l’Oba, Oyo l’oni Ade,” underscores the centrality of the Alaafin’s throne in Yoruba history. The Alaafin is not just a king but a symbol of heritage, unity, and authority whose influence transcends generations.
However, the throne’s primacy in Oyo State faces continuous threats, particularly from successive political administrations since 2003. Oba Adeyemi III effectively resisted such encroachments, earning respect and preserving the honor of the monarchy. It is now up to Oba Owoade I to wield both native wisdom and modern diplomacy to maintain the throne’s stature.
Oyo’s traditional structure recognizes the Alaafin as the senior monarch among his peers, including Olugbon, Aresa, Onikoyi, and Onpetu—rulers who historically trace their authority to the Alaafin. Attempts to rewrite this history undermine the very foundation of Yoruba traditional leadership.
Oba Owoade I must assert his role not only as the custodian of tradition but also as a unifier in a politically charged atmosphere. The preservation of the Alaafin’s authority and its revered status depends on his ability to lead with wisdom, humility, and a deep respect for the cultural values that have defined Oyo for centuries.
Contact: ayekooto05@gmail.com
You can get every of our news as soon as they drop on WhatsApp ...To get all news updates, Join our WhatsApp Group (Click Here)
