By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
In a colourful and culturally rich ceremony held under tight security, Oba Abimbola Owoade I was on Saturday crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, ushering in a new era for the ancient Yoruba kingdom nearly two years after the passing of his predecessor.
The coronation took place at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, drawing a massive crowd of traditional rulers, government officials, dignitaries, and indigenes.
The atmosphere was electric, with chants of “Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, Alase Ekeji Orisa” reverberating through the grounds, affirming his divine right and traditional authority.
Oba Owoade, a Canada-based professional with a strong background in public administration and community leadership, succeeds the revered Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who reigned for 52 years before his death on AApril 22, 2022.
Adeyemi’s reign was one of the longest in modern Yoruba history and he was widely regarded as a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition.
Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde led the political delegation, delivering a speech in which he charged the new monarch with the responsibility of upholding the values, peace, and unity of the Oyo kingdom.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, who conveyed the Federal Government’s goodwill and support for the traditional institution.
Among the dignitaries present were former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; and Senator Yunus Akintunde, representing Oyo South Senatorial District.
The presence of prominent traditional rulers from across Nigeria underscored the national significance of the occasion.
They included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, was also in attendance, further highlighting the event’s cultural weight.
Oba Abimbola Owoade’s selection followed months of intense traditional consultations, screening, and vetting by the Oyo Mesi (the kingmakers), under the spiritual guidance of the Ifa oracle.
His emergence was seen by many as a unifying choice capable of bridging tradition and modernity.
In his first remarks as Alaafin, Oba Owoade pledged to prioritise the welfare of his people, preserve the cultural heritage of Oyo, and work closely with both state and federal governments to ensure development and peace.
“Today marks not just the beginning of my reign, but the continuation of a proud legacy that has withstood the test of time.
“I pledge to lead with wisdom, fairness, and deep respect for our traditions,” he said.
The Alaafin of Oyo is one of the most powerful traditional rulers in Yorubaland, historically regarded as the political and spiritual head of the Yoruba people.
The throne carries centuries of heritage dating back to the old Oyo Empire, which at its height was one of the most formidable kingdoms in West Africa.
