The appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo has sparked a wave of controversy, with prominent Oyo kingmakers rejecting Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision.
The governor’s approval, announced by Dotun Oyelade, Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, claimed that Owoade’s selection was based on extensive consultations and traditional divinations conducted by the Oyomesi, the town’s kingmakers.
However, in a strongly worded letter addressed to the governor, five senior members (Oyo Kingmakers) of the Oyomesi, including the Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade, and other chiefs, described the appointment as illegal.
Represented by their legal counsel, Kunle Sobaloju, SAN, the kingmakers argued that Prince Lukman Gbadegesin had already been lawfully selected as Alaafin-elect in a process compliant with the 1961 and 1967 Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declarations.
Ongoing Legal Dispute
The Oyo kingmakers’ letter revealed that Prince Gbadegesin was chosen on September 30, 2022, during a meeting in line with chieftaincy regulations. His name was forwarded to Governor Makinde for approval, but the governor declined without explanation, prompting a legal challenge now pending at the Court of Appeal.
The letter stated, “The Alaafin is not chosen by consultations or divination but through strict adherence to the Registered Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration. The recent appointment contradicts this process and amounts to executive recklessness.”
Support and Opposition
Despite the kingmakers’ opposition, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, congratulated Prince Owoade, describing his appointment as divine and in line with God’s will. Oba Akanbi called for unity and urged all stakeholders to respect the decision for the progress of Oyo.
As the legal dispute unfolds, the controversy over the revered throne remains a significant issue, reflecting the complexities of balancing traditional processes with executive authority.