Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. The announcement, made on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, follows a prolonged and contentious selection process that began after the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022.
Oyomesi, the council of Oyo kingmakers, conducted extensive consultations and traditional divinations before recommending Owoade. The governor approved their choice, bringing an end to a months-long process filled with legal and social disputes.
“Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations, has been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” Oyelade announced in a statement.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, highlighted that the governor’s decision resolves disputes that arose during the succession process.
“This decision has put to rest all the socio-legal controversies that have arisen since the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We urge the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this historic moment,” Ojo stated.
Oyelade expressed hope that Owoade’s reign would bring peace and unity to the ancient kingdom.
“We pray that his reign brings progress and harmony to the people of Oyo and strengthens the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution,” he added.
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However, not all stakeholders agree with the appointment. On Thursday, five prominent kingmakers rejected the governor’s decision, claiming that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin had already been selected as Alaafin-elect.
The dissenting kingmakers—High Chief Yusuf Akinade (Basorun of Oyo), High Chief Wakeel Akindele (Lagunna of Oyo), High Chief Hamzat Yusuf (Akinniku of Oyo), Chief Wahab Oyetunji (representing the Asipa of Oyo), and Chief Gbadebo Mufutau (representing the Alapinni of Oyo)—cited ongoing legal proceedings as grounds for their opposition.
Their legal counsel, Adekunle Sobaloju, described the governor’s actions as “illegal” and urged a suspension of the selection process until the court delivers a ruling.