I never met Makinde before becoming Alaafin – Oba Owoade
The newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Olatunji Owoade, has said he neither knew nor met Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, or former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu before his selection as the 46th Alaafin.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving service held on Sunday at the Anglican Cathedral Church, Esiele, Oyo town, the monarch said his emergence was divinely ordained and not the result of political connections or influence.
“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,” he stated
This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, in Ibadan, the state capital, on Monday.
“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,” the monarch added.
He promised to uphold ethical leadership, encourage open communication, and create a secure and inclusive environment for the people of Oyo.
In his sermon, the former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Supo Ayokunle, urged the Alaafin to be courageous and always seek divine guidance on the throne, in order to surmount impending obstacles.
He stressed that courage and bravery are essential qualities of a good leader, adding that these two qualities are imperative in the pursuit of justice, freedom, and other noble causes for peace, progress and development.
He likened Owoade’s journey to that of King David in the Bible and charged him to prioritise justice, peace and development for the people of Oyo and the Yoruba nation.
“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.
“Be afraid of no one but your God at all times. Call on Him and He will not let you down. Your mission shall surely be accomplished,” Ayokunle said.
The former CAN president, who pointed out that the primary assignment of the Alaafin is to ensure that the ancient city must get to the promised land, added that “he must encounter obstacles but would not be insurmountable with courage, adherence to the words of God, and prayer.”
The former CAN president also called on indigenes of Oyo, both at home and abroad, to support the monarch and put aside past grievances.
Owoade attended the Thanksgiving service with his wife, Abiwunmi, members of the Oyo Traditional Council (Oyo Mesi), the Samu and Agba Akin, Baba Iyaji of Oyo, and other dignitaries.
A customised Holy Bible was presented to the monarch as part of the event.
Other members of the entourage included some members of the Oyo traditional Council (Oyo Mesi), the Samu and the Agba Akin, Baba Iyaji of Oyo (head of royal families in Oyo town), elevated Baales to Part 2 traditional rulers, and the Owoade family.
Owoade was officially presented with the staff and instrument of office by Governor Makinde on January 13, 2025, and completed the traditional 21-day Oro Ipebi rites on March 29.
