The throne of the Alaafin of Oyo, one of the most revered traditional positions in Yorubaland, has been at the heart of a fierce political and legal battle since the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in April 2022. This royal position, rooted deeply in cultural heritage, also carries immense socio-political significance. The lengthy vacancy left after Adeyemi’s death led to a tumultuous process of selecting his successor, with tensions escalating between Oyo State’s government, the Oyomesi (traditional kingmakers), and the wider public.
The Alaafin’s selection process is guided by the Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration of 1967, which mandates the Oyomesi to select a candidate based on lineage, character, and community support. However, what should have been a traditional and relatively quiet process quickly became a public spectacle, embroiled in legal challenges and political intrigue.
Makinde’s Appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade
On January 10, 2025, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, marking a controversial chapter in the kingdom’s royal history. The announcement followed what Makinde described as “extensive consultations and traditional divinations” by a select group of Oyomesi. The appointment was seen as an attempt to resolve the prolonged vacancy and bring stability to the region. Yet, the decision did not go without fierce opposition, particularly from a faction of the Oyomesi.
The political climate surrounding this appointment has been fulled with complexities. After the Oyomesi initially selected Lukman Gbadegesin as the candidate for the throne in September 2022, legal and political battles ensued. Gbadegesin’s selection followed the screening of 82 aspirants from the Agunloye Ruling House. His name was communicated to Governor Makinde, who did not face any objections during the statutory 21-day waiting period. Despite this, Makinde refrained from approving the selection for over a year, fueling suspicions of political interference.
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The situation took a sharp turn after the 2023 general elections, when allegations of bribery surfaced, suggesting that the selection process had been compromised. Although no formal petitions were filed, these claims lingered in public discourse. Finally, in January 2025, Governor Makinde unveiled Owoade’s name, announcing that the traditional kingdom now had a new Alaafin.
Gov Makinde’s Defense and Stance on Transparency
Governor Makinde, who had faced calls for intervention from various factions, defended the appointment of Owoade by underscoring his commitment to transparency. He emphasized that he had no prior relationship with Owoade and that their first meeting took place only on January 12, 2025, after the decision had already been made. He repeatedly stated that his administration’s approach was free from political or financial influences.
“The Alaafin stool is very important not just to Oyo Town or Oyo State but the entire Yoruba race. Under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool would not be for sale,” Makinde declared during the announcement of Owoade’s coronation. He further explained that he refrained from influencing the selection process in any way, so as to maintain fairness and avoid any form of political bias.
Makinde also reflected on past challenges with the traditional institution, particularly in Ibadanland, which had caused friction during his first term. He stressed that such issues had been resolved amicably, and vowed to continue making decisions grounded in integrity. “I always tell people not to kill themselves over politicians, because we see ourselves in the night. Politics is a game, but governance is about making serious decisions that affect millions,” he stated, reinforcing his stance that his actions were not motivated by the upcoming elections but by a desire for long-term stability.
Opposition from the Oyomesi
The reaction from the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers, has been sharply critical. A faction led by the Bashorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Layinka, strongly rejected Owoade’s appointment, declaring it “illegal and invalid.” According to the Oyomesi, the proper procedure had been followed when they selected Prince Lukman Gbadegesin as the Alaafin in September 2022. However, Makinde’s delay in approving this decision left room for legal challenges and further tensions.
The kingmakers assert that only the Bashorun has the authority to convene the meeting for selecting the Alaafin, not the state government. They argue that the process undertaken by Makinde, involving a select group of kingmakers, undermined established traditions and legal statutes, rendering Owoade’s appointment invalid. The legal disputes surrounding the matter have now reached the Court of Appeal, with further action threatened if the process is not rectified.
Allegations of Corruption and Fraud: Makinde’s Tough Stance
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Governor Makinde raised the issue of fraud within the Oyomesi during his announcement. He indicated that some members of the Oyomesi might face prosecution for their alleged involvement in corrupt practices during the selection process. Makinde hinted at legal actions against these kingmakers, though he also offered a chance for redemption. “If they seek forgiveness from the new Alaafin, I will also forgive them,” he said, signaling a potential resolution through reconciliation.
The governor’s comments have sparked further debate. While some view his stance as a necessary action to uphold the integrity of the traditional institution, others perceive it as an effort to consolidate power and control over the royal succession. Still some have viewed the governor’s stands without any tangible evidence. “We will prosecute them unless they go to Kabiyesi for forgiveness,” Makinde warned, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring the transparency of the selection process, despite the political firestorm surrounding it.
Public Reactions: Divided Opinions on the Future of Oyo’s Royalty
The public’s reaction to Owoade’s appointment has been divided. Supporters of Makinde’s decision believe that the appointment is a step toward restoring stability to the region and preventing further political instability. Traditional leaders such as the Ooni of Ife have congratulated Owoade and expressed hopes for unity among the Yoruba people.
However, critics of the appointment argue that the process has been clouded by politics and legal violations, with some accusing Makinde of bypassing established protocols. The legal battles surrounding the selection process have added to the confusion, and many fear that the traditional institution’s authority and integrity may be permanently compromised.
With Owoade’s coronation scheduled for just four weeks after his appointment, the eyes of the Yoruba nation are firmly fixed on Oyo. As the legal challenges continue to unfold, the resolution of this crisis will likely set important precedents for future chieftaincy appointments in Nigeria.
Governor Makinde’s statement that “the people of Oyo will continue to support me” reflects his belief that his decisions, made with integrity and transparency, will ultimately prevail. However, whether Owoade’s reign will be able to bridge the deep divides within the traditional institution and unite the Yoruba people remains uncertain.
The controversy surrounding the selection of the new Alaafin highlights the delicate balance between traditional customs, legal frameworks, and political dynamics. As the coronation approaches, it is clear that this issue will have long-lasting implications, not only for Oyo State but for the entire Yoruba nation. The future of Oyo’s royal institution hangs in the balance as the parties involved continue to clash over the legitimacy of the appointment.
As the saga of the Alaafin of Oyo unfolds, it has become evident that the selection of a new monarch is not just a matter of tradition, but one deeply intertwined with politics, legal challenges, and the socio-cultural fabric of the Yoruba people. Whether the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade will bring unity or further division to Oyo State remains to be seen. For now, the people of Oyo and the wider Yoruba community can only wait and watch as this royal controversy continues to evolve, with legal and political ramifications likely to shape the future of the monarchy for years to come.
