New Era Begins As Oba Owoade Ascends Throne As 46th Alaafin
Oba Abimbola Owoade has officially been crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, marking a new chapter in the rich history of the ancient Yoruba kingdom.
He succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned for over 50 years and passed away on April 22, 2022.
The colorful coronation ceremony was held on Saturday at Olivet Baptist high school, Oyo, drawing a crowd of traditional rulers, government officials, and well-wishers from across the country.
After a rigorous selection process not devoid of controversies and the mandatory 21-day rite, his imperial majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, today ascends the throne as the 46th alaafin of oyo.
The staff of office had earlier been presented to the new king by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in January, signaling an end to years of controversy trailing the choice of a new king to replace the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who reigned for over 50 years.
The event which marks the beginning of a new era for the sons and daughters of Oyo Town, the state and the entire Yoruba race home and abroad drew was an electrifying one with cultural performances from various group all showcasing the richness of Yoruba cultural heritage.
The event drew important national dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; Former Deputy Governor, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; Speaker Of The Oyo State House Of Assembly, Rt. Hon.Debo Ogundoyin; and Senator Yunus Akintunde, representing Oyo South, among other notable figures.
Ooni Of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; The Soun Of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; And The Oluwo Of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi and others were also present to grace the occasion.
Speaking the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde who said he has done his work before now again justified the selection of the king
The governor while assuring citizens and residents of Oyo of his support for the monarch called on the subjects to support the king
READ ALSO: Alaafin-Designate Owoade Unveils Official Royal Title
While addressing the jubilant crowd, the new monarch Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, dressed in his kingly gold and white agbada, highlighted the importance of unity among the people for successful growth and development of the Oyo town
He also thanked everyone for their unwavering support while promising to be at his best during his reign
At the event, there were goodwill messages from prominent Nigerians including president Bola Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of Power Bayo Adelabu.
Born 47 years ago to a prominent and royal family of Owoade-Agunloye in Oyo Town, the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, is one of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade, Agure compound, in the ancient Oyo town and he will be again tasked to continue the strides from where the late 45th Alaafin left it.
Long may you reign Iku Babayeye.
