Oba Abimbola Owoade has officially been crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83. The historic coronation ceremony took place today, Saturday, at Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo, where Governor Seyi Makinde, along with a distinguished list of dignitaries and notable Nigerians, were present to witness the momentous occasion.
The event was attended by several prominent traditional rulers, 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. Their presence underscored the deep cultural significance of the coronation and the unity among Yoruba monarchs.
Ahead of the ceremony, the Oyo State Government ensured robust security measures were in place, with law enforcement agencies deployed at strategic locations across Oyo town and surrounding communities to ensure a smooth and peaceful event.
Oba Owoade was officially presented with the staff of office and instrument of office by Governor Makinde on January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, marking the formal commencement of his reign. The new Alaafin completed the mandatory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi on March 29, 2025, which paved the way for his coronation.
The ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Oyo Kingdom, as the new monarch takes on the mantle of leadership in one of Nigeria’s most revered traditional institutions. Oba Owoade’s ascension to the throne follows the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who had ruled the kingdom for several decades. His reign is expected to bring renewed hope and progress to the people of Oyo and the wider Yoruba nation.