Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has promised to hold accountable any traditional chiefs or kingmakers involved in bribery during the selection of the Alaafin, a key figure in the state’s traditional institution.
The Governor’s statement came after allegations that a candidate vying for the Alaafin throne had offered N15 million to certain chiefs.
Makinde issued the stern warning during the official presentation of the Staff of Office and Certificate of Appointment to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.
The ceremony was held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Government Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State Capital.
Owoade succeded late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, whose reign lasted for five decades.
At a brief ceremony which was held on Monday, at the Oyo State Government House at Agodi in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital, Governor Makinde emphasised transparency and accountability in the selection process of the new monarch.
The governor described the Alaafin-elect as a leader poised to upholding the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom, noting that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but a custodian of rich history and tradition.
“I met the Prince for the first time yesterday. The Alaafin of Oyo stool is important to the entire Yoruba race.
“Those who collected money to destabilize our traditional institution will be prosecuted,” Makinde stated emphatically.
While congratulating the new monarch, Governor Makinde prayed that his reign would bring peace and progress to Oyo Town, Oyo State and the Yoruba race.
“The coronation would be in four weeks. From today, we have an Alaafin. I congratulate the Alaafin of Oyoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade. I pray that your reign shall bring unity to Yoruba race wherever they may be around the world.
“I pray it would also bring progress and development to Oyoland, Oyo State as well as Yoruba race in general,” Governor Makinde added.
In his response, Alaafin Owoade promised to work for the progress of Oyo Town, Oyo State and Nigeria as well as the development of the people.
He thanked the Governor, the Oyomesi and everyone that worked for his selection and assumption of office as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
The presentation of staff ceremony was attended by notable Yoruba leaders, traditional rulers, and residents of Oyo, marking a new chapter in the history of the ancient kingdom.
