The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Saturday, reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting due process in the selection of traditional institutions in the state.

Makinde made the pledge during the coronation ceremony of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade 1, which took place at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo Town, Oyo State.

The governor emphasised that the process of the selection was backed by cultural rites, the constitution and Oyo indigenes.
He, therefore, expressed overwhelming joy over the selection of Oba Hakeem Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

Makinde, however, urged aggrieved royal family members to put aside their differences, citing the need for collective effort to drive development in Oyo Town.

The governor later officially unveiled Oba Abimbola as the new Alaafin to the global communities.

The Alaafin of Oyo’s arrival was met with great fanfare, as traditional drummers played Bata, Dundun, and Sekere rhythms, generating excitement among the gathered crowd eager to catch a glimpse of the revered monarch in his majestic regalia.

Among the high-profile personalities that graced the occasion were the president of the federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Oni Of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

In his address, President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, noted e that Alaafin’s throne is not just a seat of authority, but a living institution that embodies Yoruba history, values and aspirations, expressing confident that his wisdom, leadership and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo kingdom and Nigeria at large.

Earlier, in opening address. the Secretary to the state government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, represented by the Commissioner for Local government and Chieftaincy matters, Mr Ademola Ojo, said the formal unveiling of the new Alaafin marks a significant milestone in the history of the state, noting that the event reflected the leadership and vision of Governor, Makinde to the traditions and cultural Identity of Yoruba race.

In his acceptance speech, the newly- installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, emphasized that prosperity encompasses not only economic gains but also improved infrastructure, increased opportunities and enhanced quality of life for all community members.

The royal father noted that communities that work together in harmony tend to flourish and prosper, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses, sharing resources and collaborating on projects to build economic resilience.

In their various goodwill messages, Senator Yunus Akintunde (Oyo Central) and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu praised Governor Seyi Makinde’s instrumental role in thehh coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, urging the cooperation among Oyo residents, the diaspora community and Nigerians to drive progress in Oyo town.