Oba Abimbola Owoade has been crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
Owoade succeeds the 45th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who died on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The new king, following his earlier pronouncement, shall be addressed as “His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.”
The coronation event took place on Saturday at the Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo, where Governor Seyi Makinde led a host of dignitaries, including notable Nigerians.
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Dignitaries present at the coronation included the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and Aare Oona Kankanfo of Yoruba, Iba Gani Adams, among others
Ahead of the event, the Oyo State Government had put in place heightened security measures, including the deployment of security operatives at strategic locations within the ancient city and surrounding communities.
The new monarch completed the compulsory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi last Saturday, March 29.
It would be recalled that Oba Owoade was presented with the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025.
The presentation was carried out at the governor’s office at Agodi, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, and was attended by dignitaries including traditional rulers, government officials and people of Oyo.
The government said the choice of Owoade followed due recommendation, thorough consultations and divination by the Oyomesi.
Security arrangements have been significantly enhanced ahead of the ceremony.
