Oyo Coronates Oba Abimbola Owoade as 46th Alaafin
The ancient town of Oyo witnessed a historic moment as Oba Abimbola Owoade was formally installed as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who joined his ancestors on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The elaborate coronation ceremony, held at Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo, drew an impressive gathering of guests, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and eminent personalities from all walks of life.
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, who led a high-powered delegation to the event, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the Alaafin’s stool and the preservation of Yoruba heritage.
Among the prominent traditional rulers present were the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, among others.
In preparation for the grand occasion, the state government intensified security measures across the ancient town and its neighbouring communities, deploying operatives to strategic locations to ensure peace and order throughout the celebration.
Prime News recalls that Oba Owoade had earlier received the staff and instrument of office from Governor Makinde on January 13, 2025, during a formal presentation ceremony held in Ibadan.
The new Alaafin completed his traditional rites of passage, known as Oro Ipebi, on March 29, marking the conclusion of all cultural processes required before ascending the throne.
With the installation of Oba Owoade, the Oyo Kingdom now embarks on a fresh chapter in its storied monarchy.
