The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde,has officially presented the instruments of office to the newly selected Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade. The event, held on Monday at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the revered stool.
Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of the Alaafin’s stool, not only to Oyo Town and Oyo State but also to the Yoruba race at large. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and integrity throughout the selection process, stating that he deliberately refrained from interfering to ensure fairness.
Makinde said:
“The Alaafin stool is very significant, not just for Oyo Town or Oyo State, but for the entire Yoruba race. Under my administration, I made it clear that the stool would not be compromised or politicized. I met Prince Owoade for the first time yesterday. I deliberately avoided any involvement in the process to maintain its integrity.”
He also warned against attempts to destabilize the traditional institution, promising to prosecute any individuals found guilty of misconduct during the selection process unless pardoned by the new Alaafin.
A Transparent Selection Process
Governor Makinde recounted his administration’s consistent approach to handling traditional matters, highlighting the need for fairness. He dismissed political affiliations as irrelevant in such decisions, stressing that governance is a serious responsibility beyond party politics.
“The Alaafin stool became vacant in 2022, and though there was pressure to make a hurried decision before the elections, I chose to prioritize what was right. Oyo people ultimately supported me for it,” he noted.
Congratulations and Prayers
The governor congratulated Oba Owoade on his ascension and prayed for a reign that would bring peace, unity, and progress to Oyo Town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba race globally. He also announced that the coronation ceremony would take place in four weeks.
In his response, Alaafin Owoade pledged to work for the development of Oyo Town, Oyo State, and Nigeria as a whole. He expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde, the Oyomesi, and all those involved in his selection process.
Commendations for Due Process
Hon. Demola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, lauded the governor for ensuring the selection process was conducted with integrity. He also extended gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the process.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; a former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; and Hon. Rahman Olorunpoto, member representing Oyo East/Oyo West House of Assembly.
Other attendees included Awise Awo Agbaye, Professor Wande Abimbola, and his wife, Iyanifa Ajisebo Abimbola; members of the Oyomesi; traditional rulers from the Oyo Kingdom; and top government officials, such as the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; and Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni.
The presentation ceremony signals a new era for the Alaafin stool and the Yoruba race.