The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has presented the staff of office and certificate of appointment to the Alaafin-designate, Abimbola Owoade, declaring that the coronation will take place in four weeks’ time.
“The coronation proper will take place in four weeks, but today I will hand over the certificate and staff of office,” Makinde said during a brief ceremony that took place in his office in Ibadan.
He condemned alleged attempts by some individuals to corrupt the Alaafin selection process by taking bribes, vowing that such persons would be prosecuted by the state.
According to Makinde, the choice of Owoade as the new Alaafin was devoid of politics or government interference.
Makinde said, “The Alaafin stool is very important, not just to Oyo State but to the entire Yoruba race. So, under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool is not for sale. It is not a stool for us to toy with.
“I met the prince for the first time in my life on Sunday. I had never met him before. I did not know his profile or the profile of any of the princes vying for the stool. It was deliberate because I didn’t want to add my own opinion or be in any way influenced.”
The governor strongly condemned the politicisation of the royal institution and assured that, under his leadership, the selection process would remain free from financial manipulation.
The new monarch’s reign is expected to usher in a new era focused on cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and economic growth for the kingdom.
