Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
This was announced in a statement on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
According to the statement, Owoade was chosen after extensive consultations and traditional divinations conducted by the Oyo kingmakers, the Oyomesi.
“Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations, has been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by Governor Seyi Makinde as the new Alaafin of Oyo,” the statement read.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, said the announcement ends the legal and social disputes that followed the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who died on April 22, 2022.
“This decision has put to rest all the socio-legal controversies that have arisen since the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We urge the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and join the government in celebrating this historic moment,” Ojo said.
Further in the statement, Oyelade expressed optimism that the reign of the new Alaafin would usher in peace, unity, and prosperity for the Oyo Kingdom.
“We pray that his reign brings progress and harmony to the people of Oyo and strengthens the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution,” he added.