Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the new Alaafin of Oyo, with the staff and instrument of office on Monday at the Exco Chambers of the Governor’s office in Ibadan.
Deputy Governor Bayo-Lawal, former Oyo Speaker Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, and some High Chiefs from Oyo Town attended the event. However, members of the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers, were noticeably absent.
Governor Makinde used the occasion to emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in the selection process of traditional rulers. He warned that any chiefs or kingmakers guilty of collecting bribes during the selection process would face prosecution.
“I believe that Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of the Oyo kingdom,” Makinde said. He described Oba Owoade as a leader poised to uphold the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.
In his response, Oba Owoade thanked the people of Oyo and promised to prioritize the kingdom’s development and residents’ welfare. He aims to usher in a new era of leadership focused on cultural preservation, youth development, and economic growth.
The presentation of the staff of office comes amidst controversy surrounding Oba Owoade’s selection.
Five kingmakers (Oyomesi) had declared his appointment null and void, claiming they did not recommend his name to the state government. Instead, they recommended Prince Luqman Gbadegesin.
High Chief Yusuf Akinade, the Bashorun of Oyo and head of Oyomesi declined to comment on the issue, saying the case is currently in court. “I don’t know anything about it. Whatever you want to know, you can contact our lawyer,” he said
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