Hobnob News – Oyo:
In a grand and culturally rich ceremony, Oba Abimbola Owoade has officially been crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, marking a significant milestone in the history of the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
The coronation took place on Saturday at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, drawing an esteemed gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, and prominent Nigerians. Governor Seyi Makinde led the occasion, underscoring the state’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and royal traditions.
Oba Owoade succeeds the revered 45th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who reigned for over five decades before his passing on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, among other distinguished guests.
Ahead of the coronation, the Oyo State Government heightened security presence across the city, deploying operatives to strategic points within Oyo and its surrounding communities to ensure a peaceful and well-coordinated ceremony.
Oba Owoade had earlier received the staff and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, in a formal presentation at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. The new monarch completed the traditional 21-day rites known as Oro Ipebi on Saturday, March 29—an essential cultural requirement before his formal installation.
With his coronation now complete, Oba Abimbola Owoade is set to begin his reign, bringing renewed hope and leadership to the people of Oyo and the Yoruba nation at large.
