The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, on Monday morning received the staff of office and certificate from Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State confirming him officially as the 46th Alaafin.
The presentation ceremony which was brief took place at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, with dignitaries, traditional rulers and government officials in attendance.
In his speech during the presentation, Governor Makinde described Oba Owoade as a leader qualified to ascend the throne and uphold the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.
Makinde expressed confidence that as custodian of Yoruba culture, the new Alaafin will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of the Oyo kingdom.
In his response, Oba Owoade thanked the governor and the people of Oyo for their support and promised to make the development of the Oyo town and the welfare of its residents his priority.
The immediate past Alaafin, late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III reigned for five decades before he joined his ancestors.