After years of controversy, political drama, and intense disputes, the Oyo Kingdom finally welcomed its new monarch with the coronation of Oba Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The long-anticipated event took place on Saturday at the Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, as dignitaries, traditional rulers, and thousands of citizens gathered to witness the historic moment.
The newly crowned Alaafin, Oba Owoade, succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83 after reigning for over five decades. His death left the Oyo Kingdom in search of a worthy successor, setting the stage for an intense and highly political battle for the throne. His coronation comes after months of uncertainty and a selection process riddled with disputes and disagreements, which nearly delayed the installation of a new monarch.
A Royal Transition Marked by Political Drama
Oba Owoade’s ascension to the throne was not without its challenges. Following the death of Oba Adeyemi, the Oyo Mesi, the council of kingmakers, began the crucial task of selecting a new king from a pool of 198 applicants. However, the process was marred by internal disagreements within the council and external interference from the state government, which led to months of deadlock.
The selection process came to a standstill after the state government rejected the Oyomesi’s initial choice of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin as the next Alaafin. Governor Seyi Makinde, in a move that ignited further controversy, ordered a fresh selection process, asserting that the kingmakers had been compromised. This decision was met with strong opposition from several kingmakers, who maintained that Gbadegesin was the rightful choice.
Despite these tensions, the state government ultimately approved Prince Akeem Owoade’s selection as the new Alaafin, following consultations with traditional diviners and the Ifa Oracle. The formal announcement was made in January 2025, setting the stage for the coronation ceremony, despite ongoing litigation and protests from rival factions.
A New Era for Oyo: The Expectations and Challenges Ahead
As Oba Owoade was crowned in a grand ceremony, many in the Oyo Kingdom expressed relief and optimism after years of uncertainty. Archbishop Emeritus Ayo Ladigbolu, Chairman of the Oyo Metropolitan Development Association, expressed confidence that “time will heal the pains of dissenting voices” and emphasized that the people of Oyo are eager for leadership, peace, and progress.
The expectations placed on the new Alaafin are immense. Aged 49, Oba Owoade inherits the responsibility of preserving Oyo’s rich cultural heritage while navigating the complexities of modern leadership. Dr. Paula Gomes, a cultural ambassador and former aide to Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, emphasized the importance of balancing tradition with progress. “I believe that the new Alaafin will define the future by continuing to preserve the historical and cultural heritage through modern leadership,” she said.
However, some residents, such as elder Adebayo Olawoyin, have called on the new king to foster harmony among Oyo’s diverse religious communities, ensuring that Islam, Christianity, and traditional beliefs coexist peacefully. Olawoyin also stressed the importance of providing employment opportunities for youth to prevent social unrest and criminal activities. “The Alaafin should create an environment where all religions flourish without preference, and where the youth are engaged in productive activities,” he added.
Another pressing issue is the ongoing boundary dispute between Oyo and Afijio, which has escalated into violent clashes in recent years. Mukaila Afonja, the Baba Iyaji (head of the princes), urged the new monarch to take swift action to resolve the conflict and restore peace to the region.
A Legacy of Struggles: The Controversy of Lukman Gbadegesin
One of the most dramatic episodes of the selection process involved Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, a candidate whose history of financial troubles and alleged corrupt practices tainted his candidacy. Gbadegesin had previously been exposed for failing to repay a substantial loan and was embroiled in a bribery scandal during the selection process. Investigations revealed that Gbadegesin had allegedly offered bribes to five of the Oyo Mesi chiefs to sway their vote in his favor.
Despite these allegations, Gbadegesin remained a strong contender for the throne until Governor Makinde intervened and selected Owoade as the new Alaafin. Gbadegesin, who vehemently opposed the state government’s decision, demanded the removal of Owoade, further complicating the situation.
The legal battles surrounding Gbadegesin’s candidacy and Owoade’s eventual appointment delayed the coronation, but the government ultimately stood by its decision, with the official ceremony taking place in April 2025.
A Future of Unity and Prosperity
As Oyo welcomes its 46th Alaafin, the Kingdom is filled with hope for the future. Key stakeholders, including lawmakers and cultural leaders, have emphasized the need for unity, cultural preservation, and economic growth. Olorunpoto Rahaman, a member of the state legislature, urged the new Alaafin to prioritize regional cooperation, the completion of infrastructural projects, and youth empowerment to ensure the sustainable development of the Oyo Kingdom.
Former legislator Isiaka Tunde echoed similar sentiments, calling on Oba Owoade to revitalize Yoruba culture and traditions, ensuring that they remain relevant in today’s society. “The Alaafin is not just a traditional ruler; he is a custodian of our heritage,” Tunde said, adding that the new king should lead efforts to promote cultural initiatives and enhance community welfare.
As Oyo begins a new chapter under the leadership of Oba Akeem Owoade, all eyes are on the Alaafin to fulfill the expectations of his people and navigate the complex political landscape, ensuring peace, prosperity, and cultural continuity for future generations.
