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Upon his arrival, traditional rites commenced. It was reported that the new Alaafin would remain in seclusion for 21 days, after which his official coronation as the 46th Alaafin will take place

It’s jubilation galore as Oyo town welcomes new Alaafin Owoade

The people of Oyo Town celebrated joyfully on Monday as they warmly welcomed their new Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to the ancient city for the first time. This visit followed the presentation of his instruments of office by Governor Seyi Makinde. Owoade has become the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, more than two years after the passing of Oba Lamidi Atanda Adeyemi.

The atmosphere in the town was electric as residents and dignitaries gathered to commemorate this significant moment in their history. In preparation for the royal arrival, all markets, including the historic Akesan market, were closed. Residents lined the major roads leading to the palace and the family home of the monarch in Agure, eager to catch a glimpse of their new ruler.

The Iyaloja of Oyo, Alhaja Adijat Bakare, explained that the suspension of trading activities was in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Oyo people. “This is a momentous occasion for us, and it is essential to honor our new Oba in line with our cultural practices,” she stated. Bakare, along with other market women, expressed excitement while welcoming the new monarch. They emphasized that Oba Owoade is seen as an important symbol of honor and unity in Oyo.

“We are thrilled to have a new Alaafin who embodies the values and traditions we hold dear. His reign is expected to bring peace and prosperity to our town,” she added. As the procession unfolded, the streets were filled with vibrant displays of traditional attire, drumming, and dancing, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. The sense of unity among the residents was palpable, as they gathered not only to celebrate the new Alaafin but also to express their hopes and aspirations for the future of Oyo Town.

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The celebrations are expected to continue throughout the week, featuring various cultural events to honor the new monarch and strengthen community bonds. Owoade arrived in Oyo Town with heavy security, including officers from Operation Burst, the Police, Civil Defense, and the Western Nigeria Security Network, commonly known as Amotekun. He entered Owode around 1:50 PM in a black G-Wagon and was received by notable sons and daughters of the town.

Upon his arrival, traditional rites commenced. It was reported that the new Alaafin would remain in seclusion for 21 days, after which his official coronation as the 46th Alaafin will take place. Baba Iyaji Oyo, the head of all princes, High Chief Mukaila Afonja, stated that it was too late for anyone to contest the selection of Owoade as Alaafin. He noted that the whole town showed acceptance by turning out in large numbers to welcome him amid fanfare and jubilation.

Afonja is the first point of contact for anyone interested in the Alaafin stool. He processes and screens applications before passing them on to the Oyomesi for further consideration. Speaking with The Nation, the respected chief urged the new monarch to embody a true fatherly spirit by accommodating all interests and forgiving those who may have wronged him. Efforts to reach the head of the Oyomesi, the Bashorun, proved futile at the time of this report, and calls to his lawyer, Adekunle Sobaloju, were unanswered. Read More

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