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Tag: Alaafin of Oyo

  • Alaafin turbans new Chief Imam of Oyo land

    Alaafin turbans new Chief Imam of Oyo land

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has turbaned Alhaji Bilaan Oseni Akinola, as the new Chief Imam of Oyo land.

    The turbaning took place on Thursday at the Alaafin’s residence, Boroboro area of Oyo town.

    The Alaafin recently appointed Akinola as the new Chief Imam after he had passed through the due screening test.

    Akinola, who was born on April 15, 1965 to Alhaji Shaykh Imam Bilaal Akano Ogunbado of Imam Ogunbado compound, Akeugberu Oyo, holds a LLB from the Ahmadu Bello University , Zaria in 1992 and studied at the Arabic Institute of Nigeria, Elekuro Ibadan, in 1987.

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    He worked as professional tutelage and practical pupilage under Barrister Niyi Badmus &co in Ibadan between 1995 to 2000 and had worked as a prepayment officer and also handling legal correspondences at the Federal public service at the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) metamorphosing into also defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).

    Outlining his vision, the new Chief Imam of Oyo land emphasised that his mission is not to introduce new doctrines but ensure strict adherence to the Qur’an and the Hadith of the Prophet (SAW).

    “Islam is complete and has been complete for centuries. My role is to ensure that our members align with the dictates of the Qur’an,” he added.

    He further urged unity within the Muslim Ummah, calling for an end to bigotry and ethnic sentiments.

    He also offered a strong reminder to all government officials on accountability.

    “Public office is a trust from Allah, not an opportunity for personal gain. Leaders must prioritise the welfare of the people at all times,” he advised.

    Oba Owoade called on all Muslims in Oyo land to drum support for the new leadership of the mosque.

  • The making of a royal banger

    The making of a royal banger

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, had conferred a honorific title, the “Okanlomo of Yorubaland”, on an Ibadan-based businessman, Dotun Sanusi.

    But the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, took offence, claiming he was the only authority — by law — allowed to confer Yoruba-wide titles, and threatening Armageddon, if the Ooni did not reverse himself within two days! 

    The making of a royal banger!

    Okay, even among the royals, a tiff is not unexpected, though its regularity might be far between.  Royals were first human, before a feudal system lofted them above fellow creatures. Still, must royal tiffs be so base, be so crude, be so uncouth, from both sides?  Frankly, the exchanges, between the Oyo and Ife courts, are rather forgettable!

    By Yoruba sacred myth, Ife is the spiritual fount of Yorubaland — what the late Ooni Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, coined the “Source”, in the bruising royal politics of his day.

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    Oyo, on the other hand, was the imperial capital, on account of the then fashionable crime of empire building.  Pray, how can sacking, maiming and killing a captive people — fellow Yoruba and other folks — be a blessing to anyone, including the cruel imperial power?

    So, by myth and brazen power, both Ife and Oyo have a special place in Yoruba history.  Which is why you’d expect whatever emanates from either court not to be disagreeable, even if both violently disagree.  But the toxin issuing from both courts, over the “Okanlomo” matter is, to say the least, disgraceful.

    The Oyo opening salvo: “… It is very obligatory for the Alaafin to call the Ooni of Ife to order and demand revocation of the so-called Okanlomo of Yorubaland Chieftaincy title conferred on Engr. Dotun Sanusi with 48 HOURS (capitals his) or face the consequences.”  Crude.

    The Ife riposte: “My principal has directed me against issuing a press release on the empty threat of the Alawada Baba Sala” the Ooni’s spokesperson dismissed the threat from the Oyo court as comic relief: as Moses Olaiya, the iconic Baba Sala and late ace Yoruba rib-cracking comedian, provided.  Rude.

    After everything, the whole huff was needless.  Sanusi just said his Chieftaincy was “Okanlomo Oodua”, not “Okanlomo of Yorubaland”!  Idle tiff?

    Even then, “Okanlomo” is honorific, not a core traditional title.  “…of Yorubaland” is also farcical.  If the Ijebu were never under the yoke of Oyo, even at the climax of its imperial powers, and the Ijebu are part of Yorubaland, then it’s common logic that the Alaafin couldn’t validly confer any pan-Yoruba title, beyond Oyo’s immediate vanity, and definitely not outside its old imperial boundaries.

    Let these two monarchs get busy with serious things.  The Okanlomo feuding should be infra dig to their majestic dignities, though the Alaafin would appear more blame-worthy, for opening the front with a vain-glorious attack.  Enough!

  • Alaafin meets palace staff, seeks harmonious working relationships

    Alaafin meets palace staff, seeks harmonious working relationships

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has stated that in today’s corporate landscape, the importance of building strong and healthy relationships within the workforce cannot be overstated.

    He noted that these relationships are crucial not only for the smooth functioning of day-to-day operations but also for fostering an organisational culture that promotes long-term success.

    According to Bode Durojaiye, the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, the monarch spoke while addressing Palace staff at a maiden meeting in his private residence in the Boroboro area of Oyo town on Thursday.

    Oba Owoade emphasised that strong, healthy relationships among the Palace workforce will lay the groundwork for effective collaboration.

    He said, “When you have mutual respect and understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, you can work together more efficiently. This synergy is crucial for tackling complex projects and innovative problem-solving, thereby driving the Palace objectives forward.

    “Unity and robust relationships are the cornerstone of growth and success in both personal and collective endeavours. When individuals come together with a shared vision and purpose, they can combine their strengths, talents, and resources to achieve common goals.

     “Whether it’s within a team, a family, or a community, unity fosters collaboration, cooperation, and mutual support, propelling everyone towards greater heights of achievement””.

    By working together and standing united in the face of challenges as a team, the Paramount Ruler pointed out that obstacles can be overcome, full potential can be realised, and a brighter future for the people can be created.

    Read Also: Alaafin of Oyo urged to foster unity among Yoruba Obas

    “It is hard work and a beacon of courage that can light the path towards greater achievements and collective triumphs, he said.

    Alaafin Owoade also used the occasion to express his heartfelt appreciation to the “unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in him by the people, which have been the driving force behind his confidence.”

    He noted that human beings are inherently social creatures and that the most significant achievements should always be the result of collective effort.

    Also speaking, the wife of the Alaafin, Ayaba Abiwumi Owoade, said that when people come together in unity, they find solace and support in each other, bolstering their confidence and resolve.

    Through solidarity, hard work, and unflinching commitment, Ayaba Abiwumi posited that the Palace workforce can draw courage from the knowledge that they are not alone in their struggles, but rather part of a collective force that can weather any storm.

    According to her, “This sense of unity, among Palace Staffers, can instil a deep-seated belief in their abilities and a shared commitment to overcoming adversity.”

  • Alaafin of Oyo urged to foster unity among Yoruba Obas

    Alaafin of Oyo urged to foster unity among Yoruba Obas

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has been urged to extend a hand of fellowship to other traditional rulers across Yorubaland to promote cultural heritage and drive regional development.

    The call was made by the National Old Students Association of Baptist High School, Saki, during a visit to the monarch to congratulate him on his ascension to the throne.

    The delegation was led by the association’s national president, Deacon Sola Togunde.

    Oba Owoade, an alumnus of Baptist High School, Saki, hailed the visit, which was facilitated by his 1992 classmates.

    During the meeting, a member of the delegation, Afolayan, appealed to the Alaafin not to forget his alma mater, acknowledging the school’s role in shaping his leadership qualities.

    In his response, Oba Owoade expressed deep appreciation for the visit and lauded the school for instilling moral and academic discipline in him.

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    He noted that without the school’s firm guidance, he might have taken a different path. The monarch pledged to remain committed to the growth of the institution and promised to honour invitations from the association.

    The visit also featured prayers offered by Reverend Sijuade Okunade, an alumnus and ordained pastor at Gloria Baptist Church, Saki, who prayed for divine strength and wisdom for the Alaafin.

    The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of gifts to Oba Owoade, including a royal staff and a large hide hand fan.

    Other members of the delegation included Prince Remi Adegbola (General Secretary), Dr. Jare Adegbola (3rd Vice-President), Mr. S. A. Adeniji (Financial Secretary), Deacon E. O. Ogundiran (Auditor), among others.

  • Seaman’s Schnapps celebrates 46th Alaafin of Oyo

    Seaman’s Schnapps celebrates 46th Alaafin of Oyo

    Seaman’s Schnapps, Nigeria’s number one prayer drink, took pride of place as the official drink at the grand coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I.

    The historic event, held at the popular Olivet Heights in Oyo, brought together an impressive gathering of dignitaries and royal fathers from across Nigeria and the diaspora—including attendees from Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as other parts of the Americas and West Africa—emphasising the global prominence and ancestral significance of Yoruba heritage.

    Amidst the royal grandeur and pageantry, Seaman’s Schnapps featured prominently in the ceremonial rites and hospitality across all major venues. 

    From libation rituals to traditional blessings, the brand’s visible presence reflected its deep cultural alignment and longstanding association with honour, tradition, and prestige. 

    Marketing Manager for Seaman’s Schnapps, Mr. Gbemileke Lawal, highlighted the brand’s involvement: “Being part of this historic Oyo moment reaffirms Seaman’s Schnapps as the drink of honour, heritage, and prestige. 

    To be at the heart of such a globally significant Yoruba cultural event demonstrates the timeless relevance and stature of our brand.”

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    Senior Brand Manager, Mrs. Nnenna Uche-Onyenacho, shared her team’s perspective on the occasion, remarking: “It was a true delight to witness the pride and power of tradition so beautifully showcased. Being part of this historic moment as the official drink is not merely an honour—it drives our commitment to do even more. We remain devoted to supporting royal institutions and upholding the timeless values they represent.”

    Additionally, the coronation served as a vivid reminder of the enduring influence of Yoruba culture in fostering connections between Africa and its diaspora. Guests were treated to a celebration that blended rich historical traditions with vibrant modern expressions, further showcasing the resilience and evolution of Yoruba heritage.

    The grand coronation, following weeks of traditional rites and community festivities, marked a new chapter in the venerable history of the Oyo Empire. Seaman’s Schnapps’ involvement—through support, presence, and hospitality—underscores its reputation not merely as a market leader but as a custodian of cultural heritage.

    As the echoes of royalty resound and new royal steps are taken, Seaman’s Schnapps stands proudly at the intersection of past glory and future promise—uplifting tradition, honouring ancestors, and celebrating a legacy that spans generations.

  • BREAKING: Oba Owoade crowned Alaafin of Oyo

    BREAKING: Oba Owoade crowned Alaafin of Oyo

    Oba Abimbola Owoade has been crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

    Owoade succeeds the 45th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who died on April 22, 2022, at 83.

    The coronation took place at Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo, where Governor Seyi Makinde led a host of dignitaries, including notable Nigerians.

    The coronation happened barely three years after the last monarch, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, joined his ancestors

    Some of the dignitaries at the event include: Statistician General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer, National Bureau of Statistic, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran; Wife of Oyo  Governor, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde;  Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal; Deputy Osun Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; Chief of Staff to the Ondo Governor who represented the Governor, Prince Olusegun Omojuwa; Oyo Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin and  Senator Monsurat Sunmonu among other top government functionaries.

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    President Bola Tinubu was represented by Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.

    Oba Owoade, who was presented with the staff of office and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, the state capital, ascends the throne after the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. 

  • Tasks before the new Alaafin of Oyo

    Tasks before the new Alaafin of Oyo

    Sir: All is set for April 5, when Oyo Alaafin community and its environs will play host to thousands of dignitaries from all walks of life to witness the coronation of a new Alaafin, Oba Akeem Owoade,

    The new Alaafin is ascending the throne of his forebears after more than two years of the demise of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. Owoade’s emergence as the new Alaafin came after fierce battles against equally qualified princes from his own royal lineage. The immediate task before the new Alaafin is how to soothe the frayed nerves and pacifying the losers in the aftermath of the battles that must have taken huge tolls on the rivals in both cash and kind.

    Aside Ibadan which has a relatively peaceful succession, one of the debacles of Obaship in other parts of Yorubaland is its in-built schism whereby a once peaceful, progressive and friendly community is suddenly polarized through succession to a demised king.

    So delicate and horrendous are the contests that supposedly friendly families sometimes become arch enemies by virtue of supporting different candidates into throne. The new Alaafin must work assiduously to close ranks and provide a lasting truce between him and other contestant princes on one hand, and the wider Oyo community on the other.

    He must hit the ground running by initiating ideas and identifying with the traditional values capable of pacifying all and sundry. Obaship is all about tradition and culture, and the best way to proceed is to start learning fast, especially having been away from the scene for a long time so that he can win the heart of the people.

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    Oba Owoade is ascending the Alaafin throne at the most in-auspicious time in the history of the Yoruba race. The Yoruba nation is gradually facing the dearth of leadership that could act as the rallying voice in a nation known for its virile and virulent interdependence and heterogeneity.

    With the now presumed incapacitation of Afenifere, the once effective pan Yoruba socio-cultural organization acting as the umbrella body for other Yoruba groups, there is an already an inevitable leadership lacuna which prominent Yoruba Obas like Ooni of Ife, Alaafin of Oyo and Soun of Ogbomoso must rise up to fill.

    It is kudos for the Ooni Ogunwusi who since his ascendency to the throne has been working tirelessly to restore the unity and past glory of Obaship in Yorubaland.  With the trio of Ooni, Alaafin and the Soun of Ogbomoso, who are not just paramount rulers, but are individuals imbued with sophistication, exposure, education and influence, taking up the gauntlet to restore the unity and sense of traditional purpose that fast ebbing and cascading into the state of abyss should not be impossible.

    Yorubaland is one family despite state creation; such sense of affinity is gradually being lost. The trio of Ooni, Alaafin and Soun should strive to reverse the trend by exploring a possible forum where Yoruba obas as descendants of Oduduwa can always meet at least once in a year or two.

    But then, there is always the fear of who will chair such meeting where you have Alaafin and Ooni, two foremost Yoruba Obas. This was the issue that predominated during the reigns of Ooni Olubuse and Alaafin Adeyemi. Given the education and exposure of both Alaafin Owoade and Ooni Ogunwusi, the issue of supremacy should not be allowed to constitute a cog in the wheel of progress and development of Yorubaland.

    On the on-going debate on the role of traditional rulers in the development of Nigeria, the trio of Alaafin, Ooni and Soun should constitute the vanguard in collaboration with their colleagues from the North, East, South to canvass a new role for traditional rulers in the constitution. Indeed, traditional rulers in Nigeria should take advantage of the ongoing constitutional review exercise to advocate for a new role in the constitution.

    •Sunday Olagunju,Ibadan, Oyo State.

  • Ex-Canadian PM Trudeau, ambassadors for Alaafin’s coronation

    Ex-Canadian PM Trudeau, ambassadors for Alaafin’s coronation

    Former Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, is among the dignitaries that have confirmed their attendance at the coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I.

    The Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the coronation, Dr Adekunle Ogunmola, gave the confirmation at a news briefing at Alaafin’s palace yesterday.

    He said Oba Owoade confirmed to the committee to prepare to host the former prime minister, having confirmed from him that he would attend.

    The LOC chairman says ambassadors of Spain, Brazil, Columbia and Portugal have also confirmed their attendance.

    The coronation has been scheduled for April 5 amid week-long activities that will begin on March 31. 

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    Trudeau’s attendance may be connected to the fact that Oba Owoade holds dual citizenship of Canada and Nigeria.

    Coronation activities will kick off with a cultural parade in the town on March 31 and end with a Christian thanksgiving service on April 6.

    There will be a public lecture/colloquium on Tuesday, which will be anchored by Professors Anthony Asiwaju, Akin Alao and Siyan Oyeweso.

    Thursday will witness command performance of Aremo Aderonmu (A stage play written by Gbemi Faleti), at Ajayi Crowther University.

    The actual coronation is slated for Saturday. There will be historic tree planting on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Friday will be cultural heritage day, while several projects will be inaugurated in honour of the new monarch.

    Ogunmola said top traditional rulers like the Ooni of Ife, Oba of Benin, Sultan of Sokoto and Yoruba monarchs from outside the country are to attend the ceremony.

    He said security measures were being planned to ensure safety of lives and property during the ceremony.

  • Alaafin Owoade unveils official title

    Alaafin Owoade unveils official title

    The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has unveiled his official title.

    A statement said Oba Owoade would be addressed as His Imperial Majesty.

    The statement reads: “This is to inform the general public that the proper manner of addressing the Alaafin for all activities and in the media is EXACTLY as follows:

    HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY IKU BABA YEYE OBA ABIMBOLA AKEEM OWOADE I ALAAFIN OF OYO

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    “The number after OWOADE is the Roman Numeral One (I), not the English Number One (1).

    “The public is enjoined to adhere strictly to use the wordings as exactly as stated above and without adding prefix or suffix to any of the names as stated above.”

  • Traditional rites begin for Alaafin of Oyo ahead of April 5 coronation 

    Traditional rites begin for Alaafin of Oyo ahead of April 5 coronation 

    Preparations are in full swing for the mandatory traditional rites of the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, ahead of his coronation on April 5. 

    The Nation reports that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented Oba Owoade with his certificate of appointment and staff of office on January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, confirming him as the 46th Alaafin. 

    As part of the coronation process, Alaafin Owoade will visit several ancestral homes to offer sacrifices, perform appeasements, and even stay overnight to conduct sacred night rites. 

    Following these rituals, he will enter Ipebi, a period of seclusion within the Alaafin’s palace, where the final traditional rites will take place. 

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    According to a statement by the Alaafin’s Media Aide, Bode Durojaiye, the ancestral rituals performed during Ipebi will mark the climax of the sacred process before Oba Owoade is officially crowned.

    The statement read in part, “The sacredness of the Alaafin institution is one of the few reasons why Oyo traditional monarchy system and values have garnered so much respect and admiration over the years.

    “The institution inspires nothing short of reverence. The legendary feats of the Titan of Yorubaland in times past were blessings of oral history, with in-depth documentation of historical accomplishments.

    “However, sequel to the governor’s four-week directive to do the coronation, the traditional rites will be concluded before then.

    “The new Alaafin is expected in the ancient town from Canada any moment from now.”