Oba Abimbola Owoade has officially been crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83. The coronation ceremony, held today (Saturday) at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, was a significant cultural event attended by several dignitaries, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and other prominent figures.
Key Dignitaries in Attendance
The event saw the presence of important traditional rulers and notable figures from across Nigeria, including:
- Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadan
- Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife
- Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso
- Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo
- Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Oona Kankanfo of Yoruba, among others.
Security Measures and Preparations
Ahead of the coronation, the Oyo State Government had implemented heightened security measures across the city, with security operatives deployed to strategic locations within Oyo and its surrounding communities. This was to ensure the safety and smooth running of the event.
Traditional Rites and Ascension to the Throne
Oba Owoade, who was formally presented with the staff and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, had completed the 21-day compulsory traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi on March 29, 2025, before ascending to the throne. His coronation marks the continuation of a rich cultural and historical legacy for the Alaafin of Oyo kingdom.
The Future of the Alaafin’s Reign
As the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade’s reign is expected to carry forward the legacy of his predecessors, continuing to play an influential role in the cultural and political affairs of the Yoruba people and Nigeria at large.
