By A Historic Homecoming of Royalty
The ancient city of Oyo witnessed a majestic revival of history on Saturday as Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I was officially crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. This rare moment, last seen 53 years ago during the enthronement of the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, was met with widespread celebration and emotional reflection.
Oba Owoade and his Olori
“It’s like living in a dream,” said Madam Iyabode Akinfenwa, a septuagenarian resident of Oyo. “I was just a young woman when Oba Adeyemi was crowned. To now witness another Alaafin ascending the throne is an honour I will treasure forever.”
Having completed the sacred 21-day Oro Ipebi traditional rites, Oba Owoade’s coronation took place at Oliveth Baptist High School, drawing dignitaries, traditional rulers, and thousands of elated indigenes.
Cultural troupe performing
Unity in Diversity: A Ceremony for the Ages
The streets of Oyo became a tapestry of culture and celebration. Local drummers, palace guards, and colourfully dressed townspeople converged to honour their new monarch. For many, it was a day they had waited their whole lives to see.
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“I was not yet born when the last Alaafin was crowned,” said Kunle Oyelowo, a youth leader. “This experience is not just for us, but for the next generation. We will share these memories with pride.”
Yoruba obas
Another elder added, “Some of us may not live to see the next coronation. We pray Oba Owoade enjoys a long, peaceful, and impactful reign.”
“Let the Truth Stand:” Governor Makinde Addresses Controversy
In his address, Governor Seyi Makinde dispelled any rumours of political interference in the selection process. He openly challenged any aggrieved party to present evidence of manipulation.
Governor Seyi Makinde and his wife at the occasion
“I want to ask,” Makinde said pointedly, “is there anyone here with proof that I influenced the selection of Oba Owoade? If yes, let them come forward now.”
He continued, “Yes, some approached me on behalf of another candidate, but Ifa had already spoken. The person selected by Ifa was not just accepted by the gods, but also by the people of Oyo. That person is Oba Abimbola Owoade I.”
Governor Makinde urged unity and respect for tradition: “To those still aggrieved, I say—sheath your swords. The Alaafin stool is not for sale. This process honoured our forefathers’ wishes.”
Iba Gani Adams, Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land
A Symbol for the Yoruba Nation
Representing President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu called the coronation a pivotal moment for Yoruba identity.
“This historic occasion is not just a celebration for Oyo,” he said, “but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria. The Alaafin’s stool remains a beacon of culture, pride, and unity.”
Quoting Obafemi Awolowo, he reminded attendees, “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture are like a tree without roots.”
President Bola Tinubu
He added, “Kabiyesi, your role now is more than ceremonial. In a time of national challenges, your leadership must help bridge our past with our future.”
Royal Lineages Speak in One Voice
Contrary to fears of royal discord, several dynastic houses endorsed Oba Owoade’s selection. Col. Ramon Adebayo Agboluaje (rtd), of the Agboluaje Royal Family, stated:
Oba Owoade and wife
“We are all descendants of Atiba. In Oyo, royal families are intertwined. The selection of Oba Owoade is a blessing. We pray for peace, unity, and development under his reign.”
This sentiment was echoed by others who praised the transparent and inclusive process. “There was no bloodshed, no crisis. That in itself is a victory,” said Prince Adeola Adeyemi of another royal house.
Oba Owoade
The Voice of the Throne: Oba Owoade’s Vision
In his first royal address, Oba Abimbola Owoade I laid out a visionl of inclusiveness, transformation, and unity.
“We must work together,” he said. “Our strength lies in unity—across families, across beliefs, and across generations. We will build a greater Oyo, not with words, but with purpose.”
Even some Europeans were in attendance Ok
He called on the diaspora to reconnect with their roots: “Our sons and daughters abroad must not come home only to question tradition. Let them return to contribute. Oyo is their home.”
The monarch also pledged his support for sustainable development and investment. “My reign shall bring light to every corner of our kingdom,” he vowed. “With your cooperation, Oyo will flourish again.”
Oba Owoade and his Olori
Royalty Renewed, Heritage Preserved
With a guest list that included the Ooni of Ife, the Soun of Ogbomoso, the Olubadan of Ibadan, and the Sultan of Sokoto, the coronation was a reflection of Oyo’s continued relevance in the broader national consciousness.
Chief Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, summed it up: “The Alaafin of Oyo is not just a king. He is a spiritual and cultural anchor for the Yoruba people.”
Iba Gani Adams, Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land
As the sun set on Oyo that historic Saturday, the town stood unified behind a new monarch. In Oba Abimbola Owoade I, the people see not only a ruler, but a father, a guide, and a torchbearer of tradition.
And so, the ancient city moves forward—rooted in legacy, but blooming with hope.
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