The ancient city of Oyo in Oyo State is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for the coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, which is scheduled to take place today, Saturday. The event, a significant milestone in the cultural and traditional history of the Oyo Kingdom, is expected to draw large crowds and dignitaries from far and wide.
The coronation ceremony will be held at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, where Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is expected to lead a distinguished group of guests, including prominent Nigerians and international figures. Other venues that will host various activities related to the coronation include Ladigbolu Grammar School, Durbar Stadium, the Oba Lamidi Adeyemi Mini Stadium, and, of course, the Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, which has been a significant landmark for centuries.
To ensure the smooth running of the event and the safety of all attendees, the Oyo State Government has put in place robust security measures. Security operatives have been strategically deployed across Oyo town and its surrounding communities to safeguard public order and ensure a peaceful coronation. These measures reflect the importance of the occasion and the expected influx of guests and dignitaries from all walks of life.
Oba Akeem Owoade ascends the throne following the passing of the revered Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who left a lasting legacy as the Alaafin of Oyo. The new monarch was presented with the staff of office and the instrument of office on January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, the state capital. This formal presentation marked the beginning of his reign. Furthermore, Oba Owoade successfully completed the compulsory 21-day traditional rites, known as the Oro Ipebi, on March 29, 2025, which is a significant part of the traditional process of becoming the Alaafin.
The coronation ceremony is expected to attract notable dignitaries from across the globe. Among those expected to grace the occasion are the former Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, along with ambassadors from four different countries. Over 200 Oyo indigenes based in Canada, as well as traditional rulers, diplomats, and various government officials, are also expected to attend, marking the occasion as one of great cultural and diplomatic importance.
In light of the importance of the event, security arrangements have been enhanced significantly, with a heavy presence of law enforcement and other security agencies to ensure the safety and orderliness of the ceremony. The entire Oyo town is set to be a center of attention, as the community celebrates this historic moment in the Oyo Kingdom.
