By Nudoiba Ojen
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has presented the Staff of Office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade.
The governor made the presentation at his office in Ibadan, the state capital, Agodi, Ibadan, on Monday.
Presenting the insignia of office, Makinde hailed the Alaafin-elect as a leader destined to preserve and elevate the cultural and historical legacy of the Oyo Kingdom.
Describing the Alaafin as more than a traditional ruler but a custodian of a rich heritage, the governor expressed confidence that the monarch would lead with wisdom, integrity, and unwavering dedication to unity in the Oyo Kingdom.
He said, “We are assured that Oba Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a strong commitment to fostering unity.”
In his acceptance speech, Owoade committed to prioritising the development of the kingdom and the well-being of its people.
“I will devote myself to the advancement and prosperity of the Oyo Kingdom while ensuring that the traditions and values that have sustained us for generations remain steadfast,” he declared.
Owoade’s ascension follows the passing of the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in April 2022, who ruled the Oyo Kingdom for an extraordinary five decades.