Yemi Olakitan
In a momentous event that has rekindled the cultural pride of the Yoruba people, Alaafin-designate Abimbola Akeem Owoade arrived in Oyo Town today, marking his return from Canada ahead of his forthcoming coronation.
The 46th Alaafin of Oyo, born on July 17, 1975, into the royal Owoade-Agunloye family, has an extensive academic and professional background. He completed his secondary education at Baptist High School, Saki, Oyo State, in 1992. Pursuing higher education in mechanical engineering, he earned an Ordinary National Diploma from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State (1994–1997), and a Higher National Diploma from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Oyo State (1999–2001). His academic journey continued in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University in 2008 and 2012.
Professionally, Owoade’s career commenced in 2002 with the National Youth Service Corps, serving as a Mechanical Intern/Planner with the Nigeria Gas Company. He briefly worked with Oceanic Bank Plc as a teller from 2003 to 2004 before relocating to the U.K., where he became a certified Project Manager. Prior to his selection as Alaafin, he served as a project coordinator at Manitoba Hydro in Winnipeg, Canada.
The Alaafin throne had remained vacant since the passing of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022. The selection process for his successor faced challenges, including protests from some royal families over alleged exclusion and warnings against government interference due to pending court cases. Despite these hurdles, on January 10, 2025, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde approved Owoade’s selection as the new Alaafin. Subsequently, on January 13, the governor presented the certificate and staff of office to the new traditional ruler. The coronation ceremony is scheduled for April 5, 2025.
Owoade’s return has been met with widespread jubilation. Residents of Oyo Town lined the streets, adorned in traditional attire, singing and dancing to welcome their new monarch. Cultural groups performed customary dances, and the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement.
In a brief address at the palace, Owoade expressed gratitude for the warm reception and emphasized his commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and traditions. He stated, “Returning to Oyo is a profound honor. Together, we will uphold our rich heritage and work towards the prosperity of our people.”
The upcoming coronation is expected to attract dignitaries, traditional rulers, and Yoruba descendants from around the world, symbolizing a new chapter in the illustrious history of the Oyo Empire.
As the town prepares for the grand ceremony, the people of Oyo remain united in their support for Owoade, hopeful that his reign will usher in an era of peace, development, and cultural renaissance.