Oba Abimbola Owoade has officially been crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, who passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The coronation ceremony was held today (Saturday) at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo, with Governor Seyi Makinde leading an esteemed group of dignitaries, including prominent figures from across Nigeria.
Notable attendees at the event included the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and Aare Oona Kankanfo of Yoruba, Iba Gani Adams, among others.
Ahead of the ceremony, the Oyo State Government had implemented enhanced security measures, with security personnel stationed at key locations across the city and nearby communities.
Oba Owoade received the staff and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. He ascends the throne following the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. The new monarch completed the mandatory 21-day traditional rites, Oro Ipebi, on Saturday, March 29.
Security arrangements were notably strengthened in preparation for the coronation ceremony.