Governor Seyi Makinde has threatened to prosecute and punish all chiefs or kingmakers within Oyomesi or others, who might have collected bribe or gratification in the selection process that culminated into emergence of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin.
He said any chiefs found guilty of alleged collection of bribes during the selection process would face prosecution.
Recall that five kingmakers (Oyomesi) have declared the appointment of Prince Owoade as new Alaafin by the governor as null and void because they did not recommend such a name to the state government, insisting that the only person they recommended as the next Alaafin was Prince Luqman Gbadegesin.
But the governor while presenting staff of office and certificate to new Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade in Ibadan at the Oyo State Government House, emphasised on transparency and accountability in the selection process of new monarch.
The governor described the Owoade as a leader poised to upholding the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom, noting that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but a custodian of rich history and tradition.
“I believe that Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of the Oyo kingdom.
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In his response, Owoade expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo and promised to prioritise the development of the kingdom and the welfare of the residents.
Owoade was accompanied by a delegation of his subjects from Oyo town, marking a significant moment in the State’s traditional leadership history.
He however pledged to usher in a new era of leadership, with a focus on cultural preservation, youth development, and economic growth in the Oyo Kingdom.
Meanwhile, when contacted, the Bashorun of Oyo and head of Oyomesi, High Chief Yusuf Akinade said their lawyer should be contacted for reaction, saying he has nothing to say for now since the case is currently in court.
“I don’t know anything about it, I’m not around, whatever you want to know, you can contact our lawyer because the case is currently in court, so, I can’t say anything outside the court. I’m the Bashorun, I’m not aspiring to become the Alaafin”, he said.