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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has officially presented the instruments of office to the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade. The ceremony took place on Monday at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, located at the State Secretariat in Ibadan.
Governor Makinde emphasized the significance of the Alaafin’s stool, not only for Oyo Town but for the entire Yoruba race. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and fairness in the selection process.
“The Alaafin stool is vital to the Yoruba race as a whole, and under my watch, it was clear that it would not be politicized or compromised,” the governor said. “I only met Prince Owoade for the first time yesterday and had no prior knowledge of his profile or that of any other candidate. This was deliberate to ensure a neutral and unbiased selection process.”
The governor highlighted his administration’s consistent respect for traditional institutions, citing examples of non-partisan decisions in previous traditional appointments. He expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo for their trust and support, especially during the 2023 elections, despite pressure to hasten the appointment of the new Alaafin.
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Governor Makinde also issued a warning to those attempting to disrupt the traditional institution in Oyo State, promising to hold them accountable unless forgiven by the new Alaafin.
In his address, the governor congratulated the new Alaafin and prayed for a reign that would bring peace, unity, and progress to Oyo Town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba race. He also announced that the official coronation ceremony would take place in four weeks.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade pledged to work for the advancement of Oyo Town, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large. He expressed his gratitude to the governor, the Oyomesi, and all stakeholders involved in the selection process.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Demola Ojo, commended Governor Makinde for ensuring a transparent and fair process in selecting the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; and members of the Oyomesi, among others. Senior government officials, traditional rulers, and other notable personalities also graced the occasion.
