Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially approved Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, marking a significant milestone in the ancient kingdom’s history amid ongoing legal and traditional disputes. The announcement, made through Commissioner for Information and Orientation Dotun Oyelade, follows extensive consultations and traditional divination processes conducted by the Oyomesi, Oyo’s traditional kingmakers.
The appointment comes nearly two years after the passing of the previous Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who died on April 22, 2022, leaving behind a legacy that spanned over five decades. However, the selection process has not been without controversy, as evidenced by recent opposition from prominent kingmakers who maintain that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin is the rightful Alaafin-elect.
Five distinguished kingmakers, including the Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade, and other high-ranking chiefs, have voiced their opposition to Governor Makinde’s directive for a fresh selection process. Through their legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju, they argue that the governor’s actions contradict existing legal proceedings and traditional protocols.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, emphasized that this appointment aims to resolve the complex social and legal disputes that have emerged since Oba Adeyemi’s transition. The state government has called upon residents to embrace this historic moment and support the new monarch as he assumes his role in leading the ancient kingdom.
The controversy surrounding the selection process highlights the delicate balance between modern governance and traditional institutions in contemporary Nigeria. The opposing kingmakers, including the Lagunna of Oyo, High Chief Wakeel Akindele, the Akinniku of Oyo, High Chief Hamzat Yusuf, and warrant chiefs representing the Asipa and Alapinni of Oyo, have maintained their position through ongoing legal challenges.
Despite these challenges, the state government expresses optimism about the future under the new Alaafin’s leadership. Commissioner Oyelade shared his hopes that Prince Owoade’s reign would usher in an era of peace, unity, and prosperity for the Oyo Kingdom, while preserving and strengthening the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution.
The selection of a new Alaafin carries profound significance beyond mere ceremonial importance. The Alaafin of Oyo traditionally holds one of the most prestigious traditional ruler positions in Yorubaland, with historical influence extending across the ancient Oyo Empire’s former territories. This appointment, therefore, represents not just a local leadership change but a continuation of centuries-old cultural and traditional governance systems.
The state government’s decision to proceed with the appointment despite ongoing legal challenges reflects the complex interplay between traditional authority and modern administrative processes. While the government maintains that proper consultations and traditional divinations guided their choice, the opposing kingmakers’ stance underscores the importance of resolving such sensitive matters through both legal and traditional channels.
As Prince Owoade prepares to assume his role as the new Alaafin, the focus shifts to how he will navigate these initial challenges and work to unite various factions within the kingdom. The success of his reign may depend largely on his ability to balance modern governance requirements with traditional expectations while maintaining the dignity and influence of the ancient throne.
The appointment marks a crucial moment in Oyo’s history, potentially setting precedents for how similar situations might be handled in other traditional institutions across Nigeria. As the dust settles on this historic appointment, all eyes remain on how the new Alaafin will bridge the gap between tradition and modernity while fostering development in his domain.
