Princes from nine royal families in Oyo, collectively called the Atiba 9, have rejected the appointment of Abimbola Owoade as the Alaafin of Oyo, citing a disregard for Oyo’s customs and traditions.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff of office to Owoade on Monday, basing the appointment on a proclamation by US-based Ifa priest, Prof. Wande Abimbola. The Atiba 9 criticised this move, asserting it violated the established process for selecting an Alaafin.
In a statement by Prince Sina Afolabi of the Adeitan royal family, the group maintained that due process must be followed to preserve the throne’s sanctity. While acknowledging Owoade and another contender, Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, as legitimate aspirants, the Atiba 9 insisted the process was flawed.
They have also filed a court case challenging the appointment and urged the Oyomesi, led by Basorun Yusuf Akinade, to resolve internal disagreements before initiating a proper selection process.
Afolabi criticised Governor Makinde’s actions, warning they could undermine the Alaafin’s authority among Yoruba monarchs. The Atiba 9 reiterated their commitment to ensuring the throne’s integrity and adherence to tradition.
This rejection follows an earlier declaration by five Oyo kingmakers invalidating Owoade’s appointment.