By Our Reporter
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially handed over the staff of office to Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, formalizing his ascension to the esteemed throne.
The brief yet symbolic ceremony took place on Monday at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat in Ibadan, with the presence of dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, and excited indigenes of Oyo.
While presenting the insignia of office, Governor Makinde praised Oba Owoade as a leader well-equipped to preserve the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom. He emphasized that the Alaafin of Oyo holds not only a traditional title but also a critical role as a guardian of history and tradition, expressing confidence that Oba Owoade would lead with wisdom, integrity, and a dedication to the unity of the kingdom.
In his remarks, the new Alaafin, Oba Owoade, thanked the people of Oyo and pledged to focus on the kingdom’s development and the well-being of its people.
Oba Owoade succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, whose reign lasted for 50 years.