Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, a young Canadian-based businessman as the new Alaafin of Oyo, marking the end of nearly three years of legal battles and public debate.
The announcement was made on Friday in a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
According to Oyelade, Prince Owoade’s selection followed extensive consultations and divinations conducted by the Oyomesi, the traditional council of kingmakers.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ademola Ojo, stated that the decision resolves the controversies and legal challenges that arose after the passing of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.
Hon. Ojo urged Oyo State residents to support the new Alaafin and celebrate the occasion as a unifying moment for the state.
He expressed hope that the monarch’s reign would usher in peace, prosperity, and unity for the historic Oyo Kingdom.