Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially presented the staff of office to the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Akeem Owoade.
The presentation, which took place on Monday morning at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, marked the formal recognition of the new monarch’s reign.
This significant event comes nearly three years after the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
The appointment of the new Alaafin, announced by Governor Makinde last week, has stirred some controversy regarding the selection process.
However, last Friday, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, clarified that Owoade was chosen following extensive consultations and divinations.
The recommendation by the Oyomesi, the traditional council of kingmakers, was subsequently approved by the governor.
Oyelade emphasized that the announcement resolved the social and legal disputes that had arisen since Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III’s demise on April 22, 2022.
He also urged all residents of Oyo State to unite in celebrating this historic occasion and to offer their support to the new Alaafin as he begins his reign.