New Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Abimbola Owoade
Ooni of Ife hails Gov Makinde, others on choice of new Alaafin of Oyo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has the choice of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, saying the momentous gesture underscores the deep historical bond between the Oyo and Ile-Ife kingdoms.
Oba Ogunwusi congratulated Prince Owoade on his ascension as the Alaafin-elect of Oyo.
A statement on Saturday, by the Oyo State Government announced Prince Owoade as the new Alaafin, ending a protracted two-year wait for the new monarch.
The Ooni, also the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), praised Governor Seyi Makinde and the Oyo State government in facilitating the peaceful transition.
In a statement by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi also commended the Oyo royal family, kingmakers, and the people both at home and abroad for their “exceptional patience” during the selection process.
According to the monarch, “This monumental decision heralds a new era of prosperity, unity, and cultural preservation for the great people of Oyo.”
While emphasizing the symbolic importance of the Alaafin’s throne in the Yoruba kingdom, the Ooni said the nexus Oyo and Ife is an unbreakable historical connection, noting that Oyo’s authority is deeply rooted in Ile-Ife, which is considered the cradle of the Yoruba race.
He said the selection of Owoade marks a continuation of this sacred bond, ensuring the perpetuation of Yoruba culture and traditional governance.
Oba Ogunwusi said this new leadership in Oyo aligns with a wider vision for the cultural and spiritual continuity of the Yoruba people.
“Historically, Oyo and Ile-Ife share an unbreakable bond rooted in divine origin. The authority of Oyo derives its power from Ile-Ife, and this enduring legacy reinforces the importance of the Alaafin’s position in the Yoruba monarchy,” he said.