Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigeria President Bola Tinubu and his wife Layal have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, following their conferment as Okanlomo and Yeye Okanlomo of Yorubaland.
In a post on Instagram on Monday, Seyi Tinubu began by acknowledging the support they received from friends, well-wishers and attendees of the ceremony.
He wrote, “A Heartfelt Thank You! My wife and I are extending our deepest gratitude to everyone who celebrated with us on the occasion of my conferment as The Okanlomo of Yorubaland and Yeye Okanlomo of Yorubaland. We were profoundly honoured by your presence, prayers, and goodwill messages, which made the day truly memorable.”
The new title holder noted that while he could not respond to each message personally, the couple valued the kind words and support they received. He also paid tribute to the Alaafin and the traditional council.
“Yeye and I are especially indebted to the throne of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Owoade, The Alaafin of Oyo, for deeming us worthy of this revered title. Our gratitude also goes to the distinguished traditional council and the great people of Yorubaland.”
He extended congratulations to Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, who was conferred with the title Obaloyin of Yorubaland during the same ceremony, describing it as a shared honour in service and tradition.
Seyi also acknowledged the presence of political leaders and dignitaries at the event, highlighting the ceremony’s importance as a cultural and civic occasion.
Layal Tinubu similarly expressed her appreciation, emphasising the celebratory atmosphere.
She wrote, “It was a truly beautiful day of celebration in Oyo State as my husband @seyitinubu and I marked this special occasion of his coronation as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland. Our heartfelt gratitude to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimola Owoade and Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade, as well as our family, friends, associates, and well-wishers for the overwhelming love and support.”
Seyi Tinubu was installed as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Sunday at the Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo Town.
The event also saw the conferment of the Obaloyin of Yorubaland title on Senator Yari.
Dignitaries included former Ogun State governor Gbenga Daniel, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, members of the Federal Executive Council and traditional rulers from Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
The installation ceremony included cultural displays and performances, including by Fuji musician Saheed Osupa, reflecting the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.