Historic Coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo
In a grand ceremony filled with tradition and celebration, Oba Abimbola Owoade has been officially crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The event, held today (Saturday) at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, was attended by top dignitaries, traditional rulers, and government officials.
Oba Owoade succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned for 52 years before passing away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
Dignitaries Present at the Coronation
The coronation ceremony was graced by prominent figures, including:
Governor Seyi Makinde.of Oyo State
Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadan
Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso
Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo
Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland
Pre-Coronation Rites and Security Measures
Before his official crowning, Oba Owoade completed the mandatory 21-day traditional rites (Oro Ipebi) on March 29, 2025. The Oyo State Government also implemented heightened security measures, deploying personnel across the ancient city to ensure a peaceful event.
Earlier, on January 13, 2025, the new monarch received the staff and instrument of officefrom Governor Seyi Makinde at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, formalizing his ascension to the throne.
A New Era for the Oyo Kingdom
The coronation of Oba Abimbola Owoade marks the beginning of a new chapter in the rich history of the Oyo Kingdom. As the 46th Alaafin, he is expected to uphold the traditions of the throne while fostering unity and development in Yorubaland.
Stay tuned for more updates on the reign of the new Alaafin of Oyo