Oba Abimbola Owoade was on Saturday formally crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, in a colorful and deeply traditional ceremony at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Oyo Kingdom, following the passage of his predecessor, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who joined his ancestors on April 22, 2022, after a remarkable 52-year reign.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State led the ceremony, joined by numerous royal fathers, government officials, and dignitaries from across the country.
“Today, we witness the dawn of a new era for Oyo Kingdom,” Governor Makinde declared during his speech. “On January 10, 2025, I approved the Oyomesi’s recommendation for Oba Owoade to ascend the throne, and today, I am proud to present to you the 46th Alaafin.”
The coronation was the culmination of weeks of sacred rituals, including the mandatory 21-day “Oro Ipebi” seclusion, a rite which Oba Owoade completed on March 29. The monarch had also received the staff and instrument of office from Governor Makinde on January 13, a key step in the enthronement process.
In his acceptance speech, the Alaafin, Oba Owoade I vowed to uphold the traditions and values of his predecessors. “This throne is not a seat of power, but a sacred trust between the king and his people,” he said. “I promise to serve with humility, and to always stand for the people who have supported me.”
The event saw a gathering of distinguished figures, including: Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso and Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo.
Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland also joined the long retinue of attendees.
Security was heightened in Oyo ahead of the event, with police and other agencies stationed across key areas to ensure a peaceful and orderly occasion.
