Contrary to the usual practice of presenting the Staff of office and certificate of appointment to the Oba-elect in Yorubaland, Governor Seyi Makinde presented the duo to the newly elected 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade in the executive chamber in the governor’s office. Prince Owoade succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III.
Makinde said, “This morning, I presented the staff and instruments of office to Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. Kí adé pẹ́ lórí, kí bàtà pẹ́ lẹ́sẹ̀, kí ìrùkẹ̀rẹ̀ pẹ́ lọ́wọ́, kí ẹṣin Ọba jẹ’ko pẹ́, kí àṣẹ pẹ́ lẹ́nu o. Kábíyèsí ooo!”
The presentation ceremony signifying his formal ascension to the throne of the Alaafin of Oyo was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, and enthusiastic indigenes of Oyo, who gathered to witness the historic moment.
Before the presentation, different religious bodies prayed for the prince.
In a brief speech, Makinde described the Alaafin-elect as a visionary leader committed to preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.
He emphasised the importance of the Alaafin’s role as a traditional ruler and a custodian of the kingdom’s legacy, expressing confidence in Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade’s ability to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a dedication to unity.
In his acceptance speech, the new Alaafin expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo for their trust and support, pledging to prioritise the kingdom’s development and the welfare of its residents.
