By Ayo Kehinde
Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom.
Oyo Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, said in a statement on Friday that the appointment follows the recommendation of the Oyomesi, the kingmakers of Oyo Kingdom.
The Alaafin stool became vacant following the death of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, in 2022.
But Oyelade said Owoade was chosen after extensive consultations and traditional divinations.
“Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations, has been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” he said.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, noted that the appointment resolves the legal and social disputes that followed the former Alaafin Oba Lamidi Adeyemi’s death on April 22, 2022.
“This decision has put to rest all the socio-legal controversies that have arisen since the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We urge the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this historic moment,” he added.
The government expressed hope that the reign of Prince Abimbola Owoade would bring peace, unity, and prosperity to the Oyo Kingdom.
