The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, will be officially crowned on Saturday, three years after the last occupant of the throne, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, passed away.
There is mass deployment of security operatives in the ancient Oyo town and environs as the monarch, Oba Akeem Owoade, a Nigerian and Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist ascends the throne.
Born 49 years ago to the family of Owoade-Agunloye in Oyo town, Prince Akeem Owoade is one of the surviving children of Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade, the descendant of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade, Agure Compound, Oyo town.
In January, Governor Seyi Makinde appointed him as the 46th monarch of the ancient town and presented him with a certificate of appointment.
The appointment marked the end of a prolonged and controversial selection process to the highly revered Yoruba throne, but also opened a new chapter of litigations challenging Makinde’s choice.
Egalitarian Voice reported on March 7 that the monarch imposed a 21-day curfew in Oyo town in Oyo State, ahead of his coronation.
A statement issued by the prominent monarch’s office stated that the 21-day traditional rites, known as “Oro Ipebi,” began on Friday night and would conclude on Saturday, 29th March 2025.
The statement had added that a curfew would be imposed from 8pm to 6am daily within the township.
Following the completion of the traditional rites, the coronation ceremony for Oba Owoade was scheduled to take place on Saturday, 5th April 2025, in Oyo town.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde had formally presented the staff and certificate of office to Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade, marking his official ascension as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
The ceremony, held at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, celebrated the enthronement of Oba Owoade as the new custodian of the Oyo Kingdom’s rich history and traditions.
In his address, Governor Makinde underscored the Alaafin’s significance as a symbol of unity and cultural heritage, expressing confidence in Oba Owoade’s leadership.
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