With his coronation now complete, Oba Abimbola Owoade steps into history as a custodian of Oyo’s rich heritage and traditions, and as a unifying symbol for the Yoruba people both at home and in the diaspora
By Asaye Bankole
Oyo , Nigeria | April 5 2025
History was made today as Oba Abimbola Owoade was formally crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the revered Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83 after over five decades on the throne.
The grand coronation ceremony took place on Saturday at the prestigious Olivet Baptist High School, located in the heart of Oyo town. The event drew a powerful assembly of dignitaries and royal figures from across Yorubaland and Nigeria, all gathered to witness and celebrate the ascension of the new Alaafin.
Leading the dignitaries was Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, who played a central role in the proceedings. Also in attendance were prominent Yoruba traditional rulers, including:
- Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland
- Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife
- Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso
- Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo
- Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland
Ahead of the coronation, the Oyo State Government had taken extensive security precautions to ensure the safety of guests and residents. Security personnel were strategically stationed throughout Oyo and its surrounding communities to maintain peace and order during the high-profile event.
It is worth noting that Oba Owoade had earlier received his Staff of Office and official instruments of authority on Monday, January 13, 2025, in a ceremony held at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, the state capital.
Prior to his official installation, the new Alaafin completed the mandatory 21-day traditional initiation process, known as Oro Ipebi, which concluded on Saturday, March 29. This sacred rite marks the spiritual preparation and acceptance of the responsibilities that come with the ancient and highly revered Alaafin throne.
With his coronation now complete, Oba Abimbola Owoade steps into history as a custodian of Oyo’s rich heritage and traditions, and as a unifying symbol for the Yoruba people both at home and in the diaspora.
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