President Bola Tinubu, his Vice, Kashim Shettima, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and the Chief of Staff to President, Femi Gbajabiamila, among other high-ranking political office holders at the federal level were all noticeably absent at the coronation of Oba Abdulakeem Abimbola Owoade I as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
Governors of other Southwest states, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo were also not present directly as they only sent representatives. This absence is a sharp contrast to the coronation of the Ooni of Ife, held in December 2015, which had in attendance Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the Governors of Ogun, Oyo, and Lagos.
The state government, OYOINSIGHT recalls, is currently engaged in a legal battle over the process that led to the selection of the new Alaafin, which many, including the majority of Oyo Kingmakers, described as faulty.
Speaking at the coronation on Saturday, Governor Seyi Makinde, in a sharp contrast to this reality, noted that his administration would maintain a record of not interfering in traditional institutions and also remain impartial in the process of selecting traditional rulers.
“Today, the people of Oyo State can be proud again that we have a new Kabiyesi that represents the interest of our people and that of our ancestors.
“When it comes to maintaining traditional institutions, this administration will maintain a record of never interfering with the process. We will be there to see that due process is followed. We will be impartial, stand at the sideline, ensuring that rules are not broken for one side or the other,” he noted.
Earlier, the representative of President Bola Tinubu, who is also the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, congratulated Oba Owoade, saying the throne of the Alaafin “is a symbol of cultural pride, unity and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade thanked Governor Makinde for his unrelenting support to the traditional institution in the state.
He equally appreciated the indigenes of Oyo town both at home and in the Diaspora for their unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in him towards ascending the throne of his forefathers.
He called for shared responsibilities, cordial relationships and unity among the communities to foster a sense of belonging, overcome challenges, and ultimately pave the way for progress, growth and expansion of the economy for Oyo kingdom in particular and that of the state in general.
