Oba Abimbola Owoade has been officially crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, taking over from the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The coronation ceremony was held on Saturday at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, with Governor Seyi Makinde leading the event alongside numerous distinguished guests and prominent figures from across Nigeria.
In his speech to the gathered crowd, Governor Makinde recalled the official processes leading up to the coronation, stating, “On January 10, 2025, I endorsed the recommendation from the Oyo Mesi for Oba Akeem Owoade to become the new Alaafin of Oyo. Then, on January 13, 2025, I presented him with the certificate of office. While I have completed my duties since then, today, I officially present to the world the new Alaafin of Oyo. Those who have yet to hear or are questioning the decision should come forward and witness the arrival of the new Alaafin.”
In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the people’s unwavering support, promising, “I will always be here for you, just as you have always been there for me.”
The coronation ceremony was attended by various royal and cultural leaders, including the Olubadan of Ibadan, 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, among others.
Earlier, on January 13, 2025, Governor Makinde presented Oba Owoade with the staff and instrument of office at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. Oba Owoade then completed the essential 21-day traditional Oro Ipebi rites on March 29, 2025, marking the final step in his ascension to the throne.
