The ancient city of Oyo was aglow with excitement on Saturday as Oba Abimbola Owoade I was formally crowned and presented with the staff of office as the new Alaafin of Oyo, marking a new chapter in the town’s rich history.
The official coronation ceremony, held at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, drew a large crowd of dignitaries, traditional rulers, politicians, and citizens from within and outside Nigeria.
In his address, Oba Owoade emphasized the importance of synergy and cooperation among the people of Oyo—both at home and in the diaspora—for sustainable economic growth and transformation of the historic town.
“There is strength in unity. We must work together with honesty and focus to bring our sons and daughters back home—not just to ask why things are done a certain way, but to be part of building a greater Oyo,” he said.
The new monarch pledged his unwavering support to the people of Oyo, assuring them of a reign built on inclusiveness, service, and development. He vowed to use his wealth of experience and influence to attract investments and transformative projects to the town.
Oba Owoade also expressed deep appreciation to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for approving his nomination, and thanked all stakeholders who played vital roles in his emergence, including traditional chiefs and royal fathers.
Notably, Oba Owoade had earlier received his instrument and staff of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. He completed the mandatory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi on Saturday, March 29, paving the way for Saturday’s grand ceremony.
The event was graced by a host of high-profile personalities including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; former Deputy Governor, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; and Senator Yunus Akintunde representing Oyo South.
Also in attendance were leading Yoruba monarchs such as the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams.
The coronation marks a significant moment in the history of the Alaafin stool, following the passing of the revered Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in April 2022
