Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
The announcement was made on Friday in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
According to Oyelade, Abimbola Owoade was selected after extensive consultations and traditional divinations conducted by the Oyomesi, the council of kingmakers in Oyo.
“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,” the statement read.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, noted that the announcement marks the end of disputes that arose following the demise of the previous Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away 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,” Ojo said.
Oyelade expressed hope that the reign of the new monarch would bring progress and unity to the Oyo Kingdom.
“We pray that his reign brings progress and harmony to the people of Oyo and strengthens the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution,” he added.
Governor Makinde also called on residents to rally behind Abimbola Owoade as he begins his reign over the ancient kingdom.
