The Oyo State Government has officially inaugurated the committee responsible for organizing the coronation ceremony of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo.
The announcement came through a statement from the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding the rich cultural traditions of Oyo.
The inaugural meeting was presided over by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, signaling the commencement of meticulous preparations for the grand event.
The coronation committee comprises a distinguished array of government officials, traditional leaders, and key stakeholders.
Among its members are four cabinet members of the Oyo State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ademola Ojo, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information and Orientation.
Additionally, three members of the Oyo State House of Assembly representing the region have been include Hon. Gbenga Oyekola, Atiba State Constituency, Hon. Rahman Olorunpoto, Oyo East/Oyo West Constituency, Hon. Oladeji Oparinde, Afijio Constituency.
Beyond government representatives, the committee also includes seven family members of the new Alaafin, religious leaders, and other critical stakeholders to ensure that the coronation adheres to both cultural heritage and contemporary governance standards.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting, Hon. Ademola Ojo reiterated the state government’s dedication to ensuring that the coronation aligns with the revered traditions of the Oyo people.
He assured that every aspect of the event would be handled with precision, befitting the significance of the occasion.
Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, highlighted the Makinde administration’s track record in preserving traditional institutions, noting that in the past five years, the government has successfully coronated 10 kings and installed 40 Baales (village heads).
He further stressed Governor Seyi Makinde’s expectations of diligence and unwavering support from all committee members to guarantee the success of the historic event.
The coronation of an Alaafin is not just a political event but a deeply significant cultural ceremony that reaffirms the sovereignty and heritage of the Oyo Empire. As the traditional ruler of one of the most historically significant Yoruba kingdoms, the Alaafin’s installation is a matter of great importance, drawing attention from dignitaries across Nigeria and beyond.
