Makinde Approves Owoade as New Alaafin of Oyo

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. The announcement, made on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, followed extensive consultations and traditional divinations conducted by the Oyomesi, the Oyo kingmakers. The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, stated that the decision resolves the legal and social disputes that arose after the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022. He called on residents to support the new Alaafin and celebrate the historic moment. Despite the announcement, controversy persists as five key kingmakers have rejected the governor’s actions, asserting that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin is already the Alaafin-elect. Their legal counsel has called for a suspension of the process pending court resolution. The government expressed hope that Owoade’s reign will bring peace, unity, and prosperity to the Oyo Kingdom.