The newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Olatunji Owoade, has revealed that he had never met Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, or former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu before his selection as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. The monarch shared this insight during a Thanksgiving service held on Sunday at the Anglican Cathedral Church, Esiele, Oyo town.
Oba Owoade, in his address, emphasized that his ascension to the throne was not due to political connections or influence but was rather divinely ordained. He stated that he had no prior relationship with either Governor Makinde or Senator Sunmonu, and that the process leading to his emergence as the Alaafin was strictly the will of God. He made it clear that he did not engage in any form of political maneuvering or desperation to secure the throne, as he had never expected to become the Alaafin.
“I never knew nor met both the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, before and during the process to the throne. I never knew I would be the next Alaafin of Oyo, as I was neither desperate nor cutting corners in order to become the Alaafin at all costs. It was the will of God,” Oba Owoade stated in the statement released by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye.
The monarch further stressed the importance of unity among the people of Oyo, urging them to work together to overcome challenges and ensure the success of his reign. He highlighted that unity is crucial for progress and that without togetherness, the community would not be able to achieve its collective goals. Oba Owoade appealed to his people to avoid divisions, infighting, and acrimony and to support his leadership for the greater good of Oyo State.
“Let us remember that united we stand and divided we fall. In unity lies the strength and togetherness, devoid of bickering and acrimony, we will successfully accomplish the arduous task ahead,” Oba Owoade emphasized.
At the Thanksgiving service, the former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Supo Ayokunle, delivered a sermon that called on the new monarch to lead with courage and always seek divine guidance in his leadership. Rev. Ayokunle urged Oba Owoade to stay firm in his commitment to justice, peace, and development for the people of Oyo and the entire Yoruba nation. He also encouraged the Alaafin to be resolute in his leadership, reminding him that courage and bravery are essential qualities for any good leader.
“Kabiyesi, do not think that you are alone on the throne. Be courageous, steadfast, and committed. The almighty God is standing by you and ready to assist you in leading the people aright,” Rev. Ayokunle said.
The sermon also likened Oba Owoade’s journey to that of King David in the Bible, urging the monarch to always seek divine guidance in his leadership. The former CAN president emphasized that while there may be obstacles along the way, they would not be insurmountable with courage, adherence to the words of God, and prayer. He also called on the people of Oyo, both within Nigeria and the diaspora, to rally around their new king, put aside any grievances, and work together for the success of his reign.
During the Thanksgiving service, Oba Owoade was accompanied by his wife, Abiwunmi, and several members of the Oyo Traditional Council (Oyo Mesi), the Samu, Agba Akin, and Baba Iyaji of Oyo, the head of royal families in the town. A special customized Holy Bible was presented to the monarch during the event as a symbol of his spiritual responsibility as the Alaafin.
Oba Owoade’s journey to the throne was marked by several key events, including an official presentation of the staff and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025. This was followed by the completion of the traditional 21-day Oro Ipebi rites on March 29, 2025. These rites are a significant part of the traditional process that signifies the monarch’s readiness to lead the people and uphold the responsibilities of the throne.
As the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade has promised to lead with integrity, uphold ethical leadership, and prioritize the well-being of his people. He intends to foster open communication, promote peace, and create a secure environment for the people of Oyo. With his emphasis on divine guidance and unity, Oba Owoade is ready to embark on the journey of leadership and ensure that Oyo continues to thrive under his reign.