Oyo Alaafin Owoade’s Coronation Date Revealed
All is now set for the historic coronation of Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, following the announcement of Friday, April 4, 2025, as the official date for his installation.
Reliable sources told The Sun that the ancient town of Oyo is already agog with preparations as various committees are being constituted between the Alaafin’s palace and the Oyo State Government to ensure the success of the momentous occasion.
Before the grand ceremony, Oba Owoade will undertake the traditional seclusion rites, also known as the Alaafin Rituals.
The rites, deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, are aimed at preparing the monarch physically and spiritually to assume the revered throne of his forefathers.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State had earlier, on Friday, January 10, 2025, approved the nomination of Oba Owoade after a thorough selection process by the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers of the ancient kingdom.
In a ceremony held on Monday, January 13, 2025, the governor presented the staff and instruments of office to the new Alaafin, officially recognizing him as the custodian of Oyo’s rich cultural heritage.
The Alaafin’s stool, one of the most respected traditional institutions in Yoruba land, has remained vacant since the demise of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in April 2022.
The forthcoming coronation is expected to attract dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria, including traditional rulers, government officials, and prominent sons and daughters of Oyo.
