My plans to rebuild Oyo, by new Alaafin Owoade

The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abdulakeem Abimbola Owoade, began his reign yesterday with a vow to rebuild the kingdom and ensure its development.

In his acceptance speech shortly after receiving his staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde during his coronation as the 46th Alaafin, Oba Owoade harped on the need for all indigenes and natives of the ancient Oyo town to live in peace and harmony.

His views were supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinub, who charged him to use his stool to foster peace, promote cultural identity and support governance.

At the ceremony which held at the Olivet Heights Baptist School, Oyo, the monarch promised to take advantage of the town’s indigenes in the Diaspora to develop it while also deploying technology where necessary.

Flanked by his wife, the monarch said the firm belief of the people in him was the driving force behind his confidence to take on the new task.

He said the power of unity remains unmatched as it fosters a sense of belonging, overcomes challenges and ultimately paves the way for shared progress and growth.

Oba Owoade added that by pooling resources, expertise and diversity, communities can accomplish far more together than any individual could achieve on their own.

The monarch said he is looking towards partnering Oyo indigenes at home and in the Diaspora to provide the modern developmental planks for the transformation of the kingdom.

Alliance between him and Diaspora Oyo indigenes, he noted, will produce results that will be beneficial to all.

Oba Owoade said: “I, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin-designate, want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to every one of you who has been there for me through the ups and downs.

“Your unwavering support, encouragement and belief in me have been the driving force behind my confidence.

“I am forever grateful for your presence in my life. Thank you for being my rock, my cheerleader and my constant source of inspiration.

“I am truly blessed to have such an amazing support system, and I promise to always be there for you, just as you have been for me.

“However, human beings are inherently social creatures, and our most significant achievements have always been the result of collective effort.

“Countless historical events and modern-day success stories unequivocally demonstrate the importance of communities working together as one cohesive entity.

“In times of crisis and prosperity alike, the power of unity remains unmatched. It fosters a sense of belonging, overcomes challenges and ultimately paves the way for shared progress and growth.

“Communities consist of diverse individuals, each with unique skills, talents and perspectives. Harnessing this diversity is essential for fostering innovation, creativity and problem-solving.

“When individuals work together as a collective, they bring together a wealth of knowledge that multiplies the collective intelligence of the community.

“It allows for the generation of fresh ideas, alternative solutions and a wider range of possibilities to tackle the challenges at hand.

“By pooling resources, expertise and diversity, communities can accomplish far more together than any individual could achieve on their own.”

He said further: “Successful communities are built on mutual support and cooperation. When individuals come together, they create a robust support system that ensures no one feels left behind or excluded.

“Unity strengthens social bonds and fosters a sense of belonging, which is essential for overall well-being.

“By working together, community members can rely on one another during tough times, share their burdens and collectively overcome adversity.

“This support network provides comfort, encouragement and reassurance, enabling individuals to face challenges head-on, confident in the knowledge that they are not alone.

“A united community possesses the power to drive change, both within its own realm and on a broader scale.

“Through collective action, communities can address social injustices, advocate for positive policy changes and influence public opinion.

“By standing together and amplifying their voices, communities can push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and bring about meaningful progress.

“Communities that work together in harmony tend to flourish and prosper.

“By supporting local businesses, sharing resources and collaborating on projects, a strong sense of economic resilience can be built.

“Local economies rely on the collective power of their community to thrive.

“When residents work together and patronise local establishments, the impact on jobs, commerce and overall community well-being is significant.

“Furthermore, shared prosperity goes beyond economic gains; it encompasses improved infrastructure, increased opportunities, and an enhanced quality of life for all community members.

“Consequently, it is time Oyo indigenes at home and in Diaspora start partnering for synergy.

“Without doubt, we can find strength in unity. This has become imperative so that whenever our brothers and sisters in Diaspora come home, they won’t be complainers about how things are not working.

“But rather, they would see themselves as partners and partakers in the overall development for a better future of their home land.

“In this regard, the kind of partnering one envisages between the Oyo indigenes at home and in Diaspora is the type that will provide necessary developmental planks such as intellectual, tech communication and marketing plans for the homeland that is urgent for modern transformation.

“This is with a view that such an alliance will produce results that will benefit all group and process members.

“In this technology-driven age, when the whole world has virtually dissolved into a global village, meaningfully partnering is a foundation for success.

“This is because such collaboration enables continuous improvement which is created when it doesn’t seem possible to solve a problem or address the situation by just one group due to magnitude, lack of knowledge or vague nature of the issue at stake; or when the cost of solving a problem or addressing an issue gets too costly for one group to tackle.

“In an enterprise, therefore, the best partnerships are those (either formal or informal) that have an organization or a structure with shared vision mission and goals, involving people for maximum utilization of emerging and existing technologies.”

Tinubu to monarch: Use stool to foster peace, promote cultural identity, support governance

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday charged the new Alaafin to use his stool to foster peace, promote cultural identity and support governance.

Giving the charge in his remarks at the coronation of Oba Owoade, President Tinubu expressed confidence in the new monarch’s ability to lead Oyo people with wisdom and dedication to further strengthen the unity and progress of his kingdom and the nation at large.

Tinubu noted that the Alaafin is not just a king but also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom and pride, adding that he has always held the Alaafin stool in high esteem as one who recognises the role of traditional rulers in nation-building.

The event had in attendance Governor Seyi Makinde; his wife, Tamunominini; his deputy, Bayo Lawal; representatives of the governors of Osun and Ondo states; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar and the Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, among other dignitaries.

President Tinubu, who spoke through the Minister of Finance, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, said the historic occasion was not just a celebration for the great people of Oyo but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.

He added that the Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

Adelabu said: “It is with immense joy and a deep sense of honour that I stand before you today on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to witness and celebrate the coronation of a new custodian of the rich heritage of the ancient Oyo Kingdom —His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

“This historic occasion is not just a celebration for the great people of Oyo but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole. The Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires. 

“Today’s historic event is significant for many reasons. The Oyo Empire was once the political and military strongholds of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess and cultural influence.

“The Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people and a bridge between the past and the future. 

“Today, as we install a new Alaafin, we are reminded of the words of the great sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo: ‘A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture are like a tree without roots.’

“The Alaafin’s throne is not just a seat of authority but a living institution that embodies our history, values and aspirations.”

He added: “Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity and supporting governance. 

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has always held the Alaafin in high esteem, recognising the role of traditional rulers in nation-building.

“As you assume this sacred responsibility, we are confident that your wisdom, leadership and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large. 

“On this auspicious occasion, I reaffirm President Tinubu’s commitment to preserving our cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that promote our rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength. 

“Also noteworthy is the fact that Oyo State remains a priority in our Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in areas of power supply, road networks and agricultural development.”

President Tinubu, who said his administration is focused on youth empowerment and education in recognition of the need to develop and crystallise the potential of our youth, vowed to continue to engage the youth positively by creating opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship, and vocational training.

Most importantly, the government is committed to working with traditional rulers to ensure the safety of all citizens, he said.

“To the great people of Oyo, I urge you to rally behind your new Alaafin, support his vision and uphold the values of peace, tolerance and development.

“Let us remember the words of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III: “A kingdom thrives when its people are united in purpose,” he added.

The President urged the new Alaafin to take a cue from his predecessor who he described as a fierce custodian of Yoruba traditions who worked tirelessly to revive ancient festivals such as the Sango festival, Oranyan festival, Isese Day and the Ogun festival, thus reinforcing Yoruba identity.

“For the Alaafin, you are on the threshold of history as successor to Oba Adeyemi III who was one of the most influential and longest-reigning monarchs in Yoruba history.

“His reign was a period of cultural renaissance, political influence and socio-economic development for Oyo town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba nation at large.

“He was a fierce custodian of Yoruba traditions and worked tirelessly to revive ancient festivals such as the Sango festival, Oranyan Festival, Isese Day and the Ogun Festival, thus reinforcing Yoruba identity.

“He strengthened ties with the Diaspora, particularly in Brazil and Cuba, where Yoruba culture remains strong.

“Oba Adeyemi III played a pivotal role in preserving Oyo’s cultural heritage, laying the groundwork for its UNESCO recognition.

“He championed the documentation of Oyo’s history, restored ancient sites like the Alaafin’s Palace and the Oranyan Staff.

“His advocacy attracted scholars and policymakers, highlighting Oyo’s global significance.

“Collaborating with Nigerian authorities, he pushed for UNESCO’s acknowledgment of Oyo as a cultural heritage site, emphasising its role in the Yoruba Empire and trans-Atlantic history.

“Though formal recognition is still pending, his efforts cemented Oyo’s place in world heritage discourse. 

“May your tenure also witness unprecedented development and peace in Oyo.

“As you mount the throne of your forebears, we recognise that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but also a key figure who expectedly should serves as a bridge between traditional institutions and modern governance.

“The Alaafin is expected to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes. Most importantly, as the Alaafin, you are more than a king; you are also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom and pride.

“As you ascend the throne of your forefathers, I pray that the foundation laid by your predecessors will continue to guide the kingdom’s future. 

“May your reign be long, prosperous and filled with wisdom.

“May you lead Oyo to greater heights and continue to be a beacon of hope for our people, and may your tenure witness peace and unprecedented development in Oyo.”

Makinde: We’ll continue to follow due process in governance

Addressing the large crowd during the event, Governor Seyi Makinde said the formal presentation was a culmination of earlier legal and traditional processes, noting that he had done his work but the ceremony was for him to officially present the new Alaafin to the entire world.

He assured that his administration will continue to ensure that due process and laid down rules are followed in governing the state while also maintaining a record of not interfering in traditional institutions by remaining impartial in the process of selecting traditional rulers.

He said, “On the 10th of January, 2025, I pended my signature for the recommendation of the Oyomesi for Oba Akeem Owoade to be a new Alaafin of Oyo.

“And on the 13th of January, 2025, I presented a certificate of office to our Kabiyesi.

“I have done my work since, but today (Saturday), I officially present to the entire world, the Alaafin of Oyo.”

The governor advised all those who are aggrieved following the selection of Oba Owoade to take a cue from the case of Eleruwa stool which lasted several years after which the sacked monarch was again re-selected and installed.

He said anyone thinking of going to court should not bother to waste time, as the choice of Oba Owoade is widely accepted by all, because he (Makinde) never intervened in the selection process in anyway.

He said Oba Owoade had been destined by God, chosen by the Ifa, approved by him and accepted by all sons and daughters of Oyo to be the successor of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

 He called on the new monarch and the Oyomesi to work to ensure that the traditions around the ascension of the Alaafin throne remain sacrosanct, tasking them to do whatever needs to be done to protect the throne so that the lacuna that was experienced these past years will never occur again.

He said the way the selection process of the new Alaafin had been resolved was one that the forebears would have loved it resolved.

He noted that when he was sent the initial candidate selected by the kingmakers, his findings revealed that money had changed hands and that his conscience was not at peace with the process.

Makinde said the choice of the new Alaafin really represents the interest of the people and the interest of the ancestors

The governor challenged anyone who might have approached him to influence the selection of Oba Owoade to come out publicly, noting that all the contestants that people came to meet him about were all not the choice of Ifa.

Makinde said: “When they brought to me the choice of the first selection process. The person even went on air to announce himself as the Alaafin-elect. Then I made my findings, and I found that some people had collected money in the process.

“Then I asked myself and my conscience, is Alaafin stool for sale? And I said no, I cannot defend it before my own maker.

“So, we have gathered to witness today the coronation of Kabiyesi, Oba Abimbola Owoade. By this singular act, we are reminded that even if some things happen and we are derailed, we will never lose our way.

“Yes, a lot happened since the last Alaafin joined his ancestors, leaving the throne of his fathers vacant for a while.

“But we are happy today that those issues have been resolved in the way our fathers would have liked it to be. And today, not only the people of Oyo ile but the people of Oyo State, we can be proud again.

“We can be proud that we have a Kabiyesi now that really represents the interest of our people and the interest of our ancestors.

“As I said on several occasions, when it comes to maintaining traditional institutions, this administration will maintain a spotless record of never interfering with the process.

“We will be there to see that due process is followed. We will be impartial, we will stand at the sidelines, ensuring that rules are not broken, but never entering the field of play from one side or the other.”

Other dignitaries present at the historic event included: the representatives of the governors of Osun and Ondo states, Chief Kola Adewusi (Osun State Deputy Governor) and Prince Olusegun Omojuwa (Chief of Staff to Ondo State Governor); Wife of the Oyo State Governor, Tamunominini Makinde; Oyo Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal; former Deputy Governors of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja and Hazeem Gbolarumi; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi and the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni.

The event also had in attendance a wide array of traditional rulers across the country, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi; Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Victor Kiladejo; Oloro of Oro, Oba Joel Titiloye and scores of royal fathers from Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Ibarapa and Oke Ogun zones of the state.

Also in attendance were the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola; former military administrator, old Oyo and Ogun states, General Oladayo Popoola (rtd), members of the National Assembly, and captains of industry, among others.