Oba Owoade Crowned 46th Alaafin of Oyo Amidst Grandeur and Royal Pageantry

The ancient city of Oyo witnessed a historic and colorful event on Saturday as Oba Abimbola Owoade was officially crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The much-anticipated coronation took place at Oliveth Baptist High School, drawing thousands of guests, traditional rulers, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond.

Oba Owoade ascends the throne left vacant by the passing of the revered 45th Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who died on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83. His reign, which lasted 52 years, was one of the longest in the history of the Oyo Empire. The crowning of Oba Owoade marks the beginning of a new era for the ancient Yoruba kingdom.

Dignitaries Gather for a Royal Celebration

The coronation ceremony was attended by an impressive assembly of royal fathers and notable figures from across Yorubaland. Among those present were the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye; and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi. Also in attendance was the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, whose presence underscored the cultural significance of the event.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State led the political delegation and played a pivotal role in the ceremonial presentation. Speaking during the event, Governor Makinde congratulated the new Alaafin and emphasized the importance of unity, culture, and continuity in the leadership of Oyo. He urged the new monarch to sustain the legacy of peace and development laid by his predecessors.

A Reign Rooted in Tradition and Rites

Before his public coronation, Oba Owoade had completed the traditional rites required of any Alaafin-elect. These included the revered Oro Ipebi, a 21-day seclusion and spiritual purification exercise which concluded on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The rites, performed in secrecy and with deep cultural significance, are designed to spiritually prepare the incoming monarch for his responsibilities.

Oba Owoade had earlier been presented with the staff of office and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. The presentation followed his selection by the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers, after months of consultations and screening in line with the customs and traditions of the Oyo Empire.

Tight Security Ensures a Peaceful Coronation

In anticipation of the massive influx of people and the symbolic importance of the event, the Oyo State Government deployed heavy security around key areas in Oyo town and its environs. Security operatives were stationed at strategic locations to ensure a smooth and peaceful coronation.

Local security personnel worked alongside the Nigerian Police Force and other agencies to manage traffic, control crowds, and maintain law and order throughout the event. Their efforts were lauded by attendees and observers who commended the government’s foresight in safeguarding a culturally sensitive occasion.

The Road Ahead: Oba Owoade’s Vision for Oyo

Now crowned as Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade is expected to bring his own unique touch to the leadership of Oyo. A scholar and a traditionalist, the new king has pledged to preserve the heritage of the Oyo Empire while embracing modernization and socio-cultural advancement for his people.

In his inaugural address, the new monarch expressed gratitude to the Oyomesi, the governor, and the people of Oyo for entrusting him with the sacred duty of kingship. He promised to be a father to all, bridge divisions, and uphold the dignity and values of the Alaafin’s stool. As the kingdom celebrates a new dawn, all eyes are now on Oba Owoade to steer Oyo through a prosperous and united future.