Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed a new development in the selection of the Alaafin of Oyo. In an event held at the Oyo government house in Ibadan, Makinde presented a staff and certificate of recognition to the new Alaafin, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, on Monday, January 13, 2025.
This comes after Makinde announced Owoade as the new Alaafin on January 10, but some members of the Oyomesi rejected the appointment.
The Oyomesi argued that the Alaafin should be chosen according to the 1967 Chieftaincy Declaration, which they claim doesn’t involve consultation or divination as Makinde stated.Governor Makinde stated: ‘The Alaafin stool holds a significant place not only in Oyo Town or Oyo State but also in the entire Yoruba race.
Therefore, under my watch, I made it clear that the seat would not be for sale, nor a matter of personal favor.’He continued, ‘During our first term (referring to his 2019 assumption of office), there were challenges with the traditional institution in Ibadan. However, we have resolved this issue and reached a mutually satisfactory agreement.’Upon the selection of the Okere, I faced pressure to base my decision on personal connections or political affiliations.
However, I refused to let these considerations influence my decision. Instead, I approved the selection of the Saki kingmakers, demonstrating that the position should not be based on personal ties or party affiliations.
The statement suggests Governor Makinde’s resolve to keep the selection process impartial, and the presentation of the staff and certificate of recognition to Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade serves as a formal recognition of his appointment.
PROF’LEE9JA⛱️MEDIA
