Owoade’s emergence as Alaafin, a blessing – Gani Adams
The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has lauded the emergence of Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, describing it as a monumental blessing to the people of Oyo and the Yoruba race at large.
Owoade’s selection as the Alaafin was announced on Friday by the Oyo State Government, marking the end of a two-year interregnum following the passing of the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
The monarch, who ruled for 51 years, died at 82.
In a Sunday statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Aderemi, Adams celebrated the peaceful resolution of the selection process and the restoration of the ancient stool’s glory.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo Mesi, and the people of Oyo for their roles in ensuring a smooth transition.
“Oyo town remains the pride of the Yoruba race,” Adams said. “Whoever emerges as the Alaafin is undoubtedly a blessing to the Yoruba race and the traditional institution as a whole.”
He paid tribute to the legacy of the late Oba Adeyemi, emphasizing his immense contributions to Yoruba culture.
“The late Alaafin left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, and his wealth of knowledge reflected the sanctity of his stool as a foremost Yoruba traditional ruler. His memories will continue to linger in Yorubaland,” he said.
Adams, however, expressed optimism for the future, stating that Owoade’s ascension heralds a new chapter of hope and progress for the ancient town.
Calling for unity among stakeholders, Adams urged the new Alaafin to reconcile with any aggrieved members of the Oyo Mesi to foster peace and stability.
“With his education, humble background, humility, exposure, wealth of experience, and extensive networks, Oyo town is poised to experience tremendous development under his reign. His emergence signals a new beginning—an era of peace, prosperity, and unity for the Oyo Kingdom,” he added.
Adams emphasised the significance of the Alaafin’s role in preserving Yoruba culture and traditions.
“The people of Oyo Kingdom and the Yoruba race at large expect Prince Owoade to restore the dignity of Oyo town and dedicate himself to the promotion and preservation of our rich heritage.
“His ascension marks the dawn of a new era in Oyo’s history, and I trust he will lead the kingdom to greater heights,” he added.
Owoade hails from the illustrious Owoade-Agunloye family of Oyo town. He is a descendant of Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade and traces his lineage to Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade of Agure Compound.
This deeply rooted heritage firmly embeds him in the cultural and historical fabric of the Oyo Kingdom, making his reign one of continuity and renewal, the Aare Ona-Kakanfo noted.
Adams concluded by affirming his belief in Owoade’s capacity to bring lasting peace and progress to Oyo Kingdom, urging all stakeholders to support the new monarch in his mission to transform the town and uplift its people.
