Oba Akeem Owoade, the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, publicly affirmed his ascension to the throne was purely an act of divine providence, devoid of political machinations or personal connections. During a thanksgiving service at the Anglican Cathedral Church in Oyo town, the monarch emphatically stated he had no prior acquaintance with either Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State or former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, dispelling any speculations of their influence in his selection. He reiterated this claim in a subsequent statement released by his media director, emphasizing that his emergence as the 46th Alaafin was neither sought through desperate measures nor achieved by circumventing established procedures. His declaration underscores the traditional belief in the divine selection of monarchs and reinforces the perception of the Alaafin’s position as one bestowed by a higher power.
Oba Owoade’s formal installation, marked by the presentation of the staff and instrument of office by the Governor, took place on January 13, 2025, following the passing of his predecessor, Oba Adeyemi. The new Alaafin’s journey to the throne culminated with the completion of the mandatory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi on March 29, 2025. This period of seclusion and ritual observance signifies a crucial transition and preparation for the responsibilities of kingship. By adhering to these customs, Oba Owoade demonstrated his respect for tradition and his readiness to embrace the cultural heritage associated with the Alaafin’s role. This adherence also serves to legitimize his reign in the eyes of the community and reinforces the continuity of traditional practices within the Oyo kingdom.
In a gesture of unity and reconciliation, Oba Owoade extended an invitation to those who had also contended for the throne to join him in advancing the progress and development of Oyo town. Recognizing the potential for division and discord following a contested selection process, the monarch emphasized the importance of collective effort and collaboration. His call for unity underscores the need to prioritize the well-being of the community above individual ambitions and to work together towards a shared vision of prosperity. This appeal for cooperation is crucial for maintaining social harmony and ensuring a smooth transition of power within the kingdom.
Reverend Supo Ayokunle, former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), delivered a sermon titled “Reigning to Lead Oyo and Yoruba People to Prominence” during the thanksgiving service. He urged the new Alaafin to embrace courage and consistently seek divine guidance throughout his reign, emphasizing these qualities as essential for navigating the challenges of leadership. Drawing parallels between Oba Owoade’s ascension and the biblical story of King David, Ayokunle described the monarch’s selection as divinely ordained and encouraged him to rely on divine support in fulfilling his duties. The sermon highlighted the spiritual dimensions of leadership and the importance of faith in navigating the complexities of power.
Ayokunle’s message focused on the Alaafin’s responsibility to lead Oyo and the Yoruba people towards a prosperous future. He acknowledged that the path to achieving this goal would inevitably present obstacles, but stressed that with courage, adherence to God’s word, and prayer, these challenges could be overcome. He further called upon the people of Oyo, both within the town and in the diaspora, to rally around their new king with genuine love and support. His call for unity and eschewing divisive tendencies such as vendetta, acrimony, and rancor emphasized the importance of a cohesive community in supporting the monarch’s leadership. This collective support, he suggested, was essential for the Alaafin to effectively fulfill his responsibilities and lead the community towards progress.
The thanksgiving service, attended by Oba Owoade, his wife Abiwunmi, members of the Oyo traditional council (Oyo Mesi), and representatives of various families and communities, culminated in the presentation of a customized Holy Bible to the Alaafin. This symbolic gesture underscored the spiritual significance of the occasion and reinforced the expectation that the Alaafin’s reign would be guided by religious principles. The presence of prominent figures from different segments of society further demonstrated the widespread recognition of the Alaafin’s authority and the importance of the event in the life of the community. The presentation of the Bible served as a reminder of the moral and spiritual obligations associated with leadership and the importance of seeking divine guidance in fulfilling these duties.
