Oba Abimbola Owoade has been officially crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, marking the beginning of a new era in the ancient Oyo Kingdom nearly three years after the passing of his predecessor, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
The coronation ceremony, held at Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo town, drew a large gathering of dignitaries, royal fathers, political leaders, and well-wishers from across the country. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, led the official delegation and presented the new monarch with the staff and instrument of office.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, while several governors and lawmakers from neighbouring states also sent high-profile representatives.
Prominent attendees included the Statistician General of the Federation, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran; Oyo Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal; Deputy Osun Governor Prince Kola Adewusi; and Chief of Staff to the Ondo Governor, Prince Olusegun Omojuwa. The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, and former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu were also present.
The event marks a significant milestone in the history of the Oyo Empire following the demise of the revered 45th Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who died on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83 after a 52-year reign.
Oba Owoade was formally presented with the staff of office earlier on January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. His emergence, according to members of the Oyo Mesi (the kingmakers), has helped resolve lingering disputes and foster unity within the royal council.
Governor Makinde, in his remarks, expressed optimism that the reign of Oba Owoade would usher in peace, prosperity, and cultural rejuvenation for the people of Oyo and the entire Yoruba race.
The Oyo people now look ahead with hope and pride as Oba Owoade assumes his royal duties at a time many consider pivotal for the preservation of Yoruba tradition and identity.
