Owoade becomes Alaafin of Oyo

*Receives certificate of office from Gov Makinde

*I'll work for progress of Oyo town, Nigeria— Alaafin

*To commence 21-day traditional rites

*Oyo town welcomes new Alaafin

*Alaafin is pride of Yoruba race — Gani Adams 

Governor Oluwaseyi Makinde of Oyo State, has presented the instruments of office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, as he revealed that he did not influence the selection process of the new monarch. 

Governor Makinde also reaffirmed his commitment to the integrity of the Alaafin stool, underscoring its vital role in Yoruba culture.

This came as the people of Oyo Town welcomed the new Alaafin to the ancient city for the first time, following the presentation of instruments of office to him.

Also, Alaafin Owoade pledged to work for the advancement of Oyo Town and Nigeria, expressing gratitude to the governor and all those involved in his selection.

Meanwhile, the Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams has said the revered stool of the Alaafin of Oyo is the pride of the Yoruba race.

I didn’t’ influence selection  process — Makinde

Governor Makinde, who spoke while presenting instruments of office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, reiterated that the Alaafin stool is crucial not just for Oyo Town but for the Yoruba race.

He, however, promised that the position would not be compromised or politicised.

He said: “Amidst mounting political pressures, I want to make it clear that I remain committed to the integrity of the Alaafin stool.

“Under my watch, I made it clear that the stool would not be for sale; it is not a stool for us to toil with.”

Reflecting on the selection process, the governor said: “I met Prince Owoade for the first time yesterday (Sunday) and did not know his profile or that of any other candidates vying for the stool. This was deliberate, as I did not want my opinion to influence the process.

“People said I had to approve the appointment, otherwise Oyo people would not vote for me.

“I insisted that the people should not vote for me but that I would do what was right, and Oyo voted for me massively.”

The governor warned those seeking to destabilise the traditional institution in the state to desist from such.

He said: “We will prosecute them. The money they collected; they will still be prosecuted unless they go to Kabiyesi. If he forgives them, I will also forgive them.

“Your reign shall bring unity and development to Oyoland and the Yoruba race.”

I’ll work for progress of  Oyo town, Nigeria — Alaafin 

Speaking after receiving the instruments of office, Alaafin Owoade pledged to work for the advancement of Oyo Town and Nigeria.

Commences 21- day traditional rites

Following the presentation of the Staff and Instrument of office, the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade will begin his 21 days of traditional rites for ascension to the throne.

It was gathered that the 21 days of traditional rites for the new Alaafin of Oyo’s ascension to the throne will begin immediately.

“Oba Owoade has headed to Oyo town to meet the sons and daughters of Oyo town and will proceed with his mandatory 21-day traditional rites for the ascension to the throne of his forefathers,” the report read.

Oyo town welcomes new Alaafin

Meanwhile, the people of Oyo Town, yesterday, welcomed the new Alaafin to the ancient city for the first time, following the presentation of instruments of office.

The atmosphere in the town was electric as residents and dignitaries gathered to celebrate a significant moment in their history.

In preparation for the royal arrival, all markets, including the historic Akesan Market, have been closed. 

Residents positioned themselves along the major roads leading to both the palace and the family house of the monarch located in Agure, eager to catch a glimpse of their new monarch.

As the procession unfolded, the streets were filled with colourful displays of traditional attire, drumming, and dancing, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. 

Speaking with Vanguard, the Iyaloja of Oyo, Alhaja Adijat Bakare, explained that the suspension of trading activities was in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Oyo people. 

Bakare said: “This is a momentous occasion for us and it is essential to honour our new Oba in line with our cultural practices.

“We are thrilled to have a new Alaafin who embodies the values and traditions we hold dear. His reign is expected to bring peace and prosperity to our town.”

Alaafin is the pride of Yoruba race — Gani Adams

Meanwhile, Gani Adams yesterday, said the celebration of the anniversary of Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland was one of the success stories of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

He also also said the revered stool of the Alaafin of Oyo is the pride of the Yoruba race.

Speaking in Lagos during the celebration of the 7th anniversary, where six new chiefs were installed, Adams said the event marked another milestone in the history of the stool of the Yoruba generalissimo.

He added that the sacred stool was established in 1530 and had remained in a prestigious position in Yoruba land.

“My Installation anniversary is more spiritual than ceremonial. People begin to wonder why we celebrate the anniversary annually. It is the tradition of the stool. It is the best way to sustain the stool. 

“The Aare-in-Council chiefs are my traditional advisers and their job is to promote our tradition, culture and heritage. Their job is to help ensure peace and unity in Yoruba land. Their job is to work with me in driving the cause of the Yoruba race.”