The newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, has announced the constitution of a 97-member committee to oversee the coronation activities marking his ascension to the throne.
The committee aims to ensure a grand and seamless ceremony that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
According to a statement made available to newsmen by the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Rotimi Osuntola, MBA, the 97-member committee is chaired by Dr. Kunle Ogunmola, a seasoned technocrat and former INEC Commissioner.
Prince Owoade Adediwura will serve as the Vice Chairman. Other key members include Prince Owoade Olayide, Prince Owoade Kazeem Ayoade, Prince Owoade W. Tolani, Prince Owoade Taiwo, and Princess Azees Fatimo (née Owoade).
Also on the committee are Rotimi Osuntola, Archbishop Prince Ayo Ladigbolu, and Distinguished Senator Monsurat Sunmonu. Amb. Victor Adekunle Adeleke, State House Chief of Protocol in Aso Rock, Abuja, will contribute his expertise, alongside High Chief Asimiyu Atanda (Agbaakin) and High Chief Lamidi Oye Wale (Basaamu).
The committee also includes several traditional leaders and prominent figures, such as High Chief Samuel Olu Odurinde (Alajagba), High Chief Mukaila Afonja (Baba Iyaji), High Chief Isiaka Tella (Ona ‘Sokun), High Chief Ganiyu Ajiboye (Oloja of Ago Oja), and High Chief Ademola Oyediran (Alaguo).
Honourable Akeem Adeyemi (Skimeh), Honourable Gbenga Oyekola, and Honourable Olorunpoto Rahaman are among the political representatives involved in the planning process.
Additionally, the committee features several local government chairmen and representatives from various community organisations.
An inaugural meeting of the committee is scheduled for 12 February 2025 at the Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo, as the formation of the committee is aimed at uniting Yorubaland, encouraging broad participation from stakeholders in the region and beyond.