Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, has broken his silence, sharing the remarkable story of how he became the monarch of the historic Yoruba kingdom.
In a detailed interview by Nigerian Tribune, the king recounted the surprising and humbling journey that led to his ascension to the throne.
Oba Owoade’s path to the revered throne of Oyo was not shaped by political maneuvering or family ties, but rather by the ancient and sacred process of Ifa divination, which holds immense significance in Yoruba culture. His selection came as a surprise to many, as he was far from Nigeria when the process began, living in Canada at the time. This divination process is a key element of Yoruba culture and is deeply respected by the people of Oyo, further ensuring the legitimacy and sanctity of his appointment.
The monarch revealed how he learned about his selection from his younger brother while abroad. He described the experience in vivid detail, recalling that it was a moment that felt surreal. “I was sleeping and when I woke up, I decided to check my phone. The next thing, I received a message from my younger brother. The message he sent was a link… I clicked on the link and the headline read: ‘Governor Makinde approves Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as Alaafin-elect,’” he recalled, still in disbelief. The message confirmed what he had never imagined—his elevation to one of the most prestigious and revered positions in the Oyo Kingdom.
For Oba Owoade, the news came as both a shock and a humbling experience. “It was a moment I never expected. To learn about such an important development in my life while in Canada was surreal, and I’m grateful to God and to the people of Oyo for their trust,” he said, expressing both gratitude and humility for the honor bestowed upon him.
One of the key points Oba Owoade highlighted was the commitment to tradition and cultural processes during his selection. He expressed deep appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde, who ensured that political interests did not interfere with the traditional method of selecting the Alaafin. According to Oba Owoade, this respect for Yoruba traditions was vital in ensuring the authenticity and legitimacy of his selection. “The process was thorough, and I am glad that it was strictly adhered to,” he said. The king's commitment to preserving the integrity of Yoruba culture was evident as he spoke with great respect for the traditional procedures that had guided the selection for centuries.
The king also addressed some of the rumors surrounding his rise to the throne, particularly the claims that he had spent lavishly during the selection process. He clarified that any gifts he had given were purely in line with Yoruba customs, emphasizing that his ascension was not influenced by financial power or political maneuvering. “I did not engage in any extravagant spending, as some have suggested. The gifts I offered were customary, as is the tradition in Yoruba culture. My rise to the throne was rooted in cultural integrity and divine guidance,” he explained.
Oba Owoade’s journey to the throne also included spending time in Ipebi, the traditional seclusion period for the Alaafin-elect. Reflecting on this transformative experience, the monarch shared how the time spent in seclusion deepened his understanding of Oyo’s rich history, its politics, and the essence of Yoruba culture. “I learnt a lot of lessons. It is a place of lifelong lessons. Traditional historians came around and they told me stories about Oyo and the politics of Oyo and Yorubaland in its entirety,” Oba Owoade shared, highlighting how the experience shaped his understanding of the profound responsibilities that came with leading one of Nigeria’s oldest kingdoms.
The Ipebi period, he said, helped him understand the weight of the throne and the deep responsibilities that come with leading the Oyo Kingdom. "The time in Ipebi taught me the importance of tradition and culture. It was a time for reflection, and I became more deeply connected with the people and history of Oyo," the king noted, stressing how invaluable the period was for his personal growth and spiritual development.
Looking forward, Oba Owoade expressed his commitment to the people of Oyo and his dedication to upholding the legacies of past Alaafins, particularly the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned for over 50 years. “I will continue the good work done by my predecessors. I will ensure that Oyo thrives through unity, good governance, and cultural preservation,” he stated with a sense of purpose and determination. The newly crowned monarch also pledged to build on the foundation set by Oba Adeyemi, whose reign was characterized by stability and cultural pride for the Oyo people.
Oba Owoade also discussed his vision for the future of Oyo, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the people and the monarchy. “I believe that, with the people’s cooperation, we can cover miles because Agbajo owo ni a fi n so’ya, owo kan o gb’eru d’ori. I embrace all religions. The Yoruba say Iwa l’esin. Your connection with your God matters more than the number of times you display religiosity,” Oba Owoade remarked, highlighting the importance of unity, peace, and cultural respect in his reign.
Oba Owoade’s ascension to the throne marks a new chapter in the rich history of the Oyo Kingdom. His reign, which follows the passing of the revered Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who held the title of Alaafin for over five decades, signals a new era for the kingdom. With a deep respect for tradition, a commitment to the people, and a vision for the future, Oba Owoade is set to lead Oyo into a new age of prosperity and cultural renaissance.