On Saturday, April 5, 2025, history was made in the Oyo Kingdom as Oba Abimbola Owoade was officially crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The grand coronation ceremony took place at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, where dignitaries, traditional rulers, and prominent figures from across Nigeria gathered to celebrate the new monarch and usher in a fresh era for the Yoruba people.
The new Alaafin, Oba Owoade, succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, the 45th Alaafin of Oyo, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83 after an impactful reign of over five decades. Oba Adeyemi’s death created a significant void, leaving the people of Oyo and the wider Yoruba community in mourning and eager to find a worthy successor to continue his legacy.
Oba Abimbola Owoade’s ascension to the throne began earlier in 2025 when the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, formally presented him with the staff of office. This significant moment in January marked the official recognition of Owoade as the new monarch.
Following this, Owoade was required to complete the traditional 21-day rites known as *Oro Ipebi*, which are essential for preparing the new king for his responsibilities. These rites were completed on March 29, 2025, clearing the path for the grand coronation ceremony held on April 5.
The Oro Ipebi ritual is an important part of the coronation process for traditional Yoruba rulers. It involves purification, spiritual prayers, and guidance from ancestors to ensure that the new ruler is prepared to lead the people with wisdom and integrity.
The coronation of Oba Owoade was a colourful and significant event that drew not just the people of Oyo but also a host of distinguished guests from across the country. Governor Seyi Makinde, who played a pivotal role in the process, was present to officially crown the new king, alongside various dignitaries. These included the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi.
Also in attendance were Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Oona Kankanfo of Yoruba, and several political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu. Other notable attendees included the former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin; and Senator Yunus Akintunde, representing Oyo South.
The presence of these respected figures highlighted the significance of the event not only for the people of Oyo but also for the entire Yoruba-speaking population in Nigeria and abroad. The coronation was not merely a local affair; it was a celebration of Yoruba heritage, unity, and strength.
Oba Owoade’s coronation is more than just the installation of a new monarch—it signals the beginning of a new era for the Oyo Kingdom and the Yoruba people, both within Nigeria and across the globe. The Alaafin of Oyo holds an essential role in the Yoruba traditional system, and his leadership is seen as a symbol of cultural pride and unity.
The Alaafin’s duties go beyond being a political leader; the monarch is also a spiritual figurehead and a protector of Yoruba culture and tradition. As one of the most respected traditional rulers in Nigeria, the Alaafin is expected to uphold the rich history of the Oyo Kingdom, which was once the heart of the mighty Oyo Empire, one of the most powerful empires in West Africa before its decline in the 19th century.
The coronation of Oba Owoade highlights the ongoing relevance of traditional institutions in modern Nigeria. While Nigeria is a federal republic with elected officials, traditional rulers continue to play a vital role in governance, especially in matters related to culture, social cohesion, and local development.
In many parts of Nigeria, traditional rulers act as intermediaries between the people and the government, offering guidance on cultural issues and contributing to the peace-building process. They also serve as custodians of the country’s rich heritage, using their influence to promote unity and stability in their communities.
Governor Makinde’s presence at the coronation and his remarks underlined the importance of collaboration between traditional leaders and elected officials. He emphasized that the government would continue to support the monarchy in its efforts to foster development and harmony in Oyo State and beyond.
The passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi in 2022 marked the end of an era for Oyo Kingdom. During his 52-year reign, Oba Adeyemi earned admiration not just in Oyo but across Nigeria and beyond. His leadership was characterized by a deep commitment to cultural preservation, education, and unity among the Yoruba people. Under his rule, the Oyo Kingdom experienced significant cultural revival, and his influence stretched beyond traditional matters into national affairs.
Oba Adeyemi’s death left a profound impact on the Oyo Kingdom, and many saw the search for a successor as a critical moment for the future of the monarchy. Oba Owoade’s ascension is seen as the continuation of a proud legacy, and many expect him to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
Oba Owoade’s coronation marks the start of a new chapter in the history of Oyo Kingdom, and it offers hope for the continued growth and prosperity of the Yoruba people. With the support of his people, the wisdom of his ancestors, and the guidance of fellow traditional rulers, Oba Owoade is expected to lead the Oyo Kingdom with honor and dignity.
The event has already sparked excitement and optimism among the people of Oyo and the larger Yoruba community, who see in their new monarch a future full of promise. As Oba Owoade begins his reign, it is clear that the Oyo Kingdom and the Yoruba nation are looking toward a future of unity, peace, and cultural pride under his leadership.
