Culture

Be a mediator, symbol of Yoruba pride – Tinubu Tells Alaafin

By Web News 115

By Iyabo Adebisi

President Bola Tinubu has tasked the  Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes, most importantly, as a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride.

He stated this while speaking at the coronation ceremony of the new Alaafin, held at the Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo. 

President Tinubu represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu said the Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.

President Tinubu said the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting government at a critical time Nigeria is navigating complex challenges. 

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to  cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that promote rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength. 

“Today’s historic event is significant for many reasons, the Oyo Empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural influence. The Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future”.

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde while congratulating the new monarch said that the selection of Oba Owoade was carried out without any influence.

Governor Makinde emphasized that the selection of Oba Owoade was backed up by both the cultural rites, constitution and Oyo Indigenes, urging the aggrieved members to sheathe their sword for the progress of Oyo Town.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade enjoined Oyo indigenes home and abroad to synegise with him  to bring an enhanced quality of life for all community members. 

The 46th Alaafin coronation was attended by globally reckoning individuals including the ambassadors of Spain, Canada, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, Ooni of Ife, Olu of Warri , Oluwo of Iwo, southwest Governors, state and federal lawmakers, and Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba, Iba Gani Adams.

Oba Owoade who succeeded late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi having reigned for 54 years is from the Agunloye ruling house in Oyo town.

Culture

Oyo Crowns 46th Alaafin on Saturday

By Web News 185

The coronation of Oba Akeem Owoade comes up tomorrow, 5th of April, having completed the 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi last Saturday, 29th of March, 2025.

According to a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Mr Bode Durojaiye, the coronation ceremony will take place at Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo.

It says that Oba Owoade, who was presented with the staff of office and instrument of office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, ascends the throne after the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III passed away.

Meanwhile, The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has urged indigenes and residents of the ancient city to celebrate with moderation.

He reminded them that beating the drums of vendetta, persecution, and acrimony were ill winds that would not blow anyone good.

Rasheedah Makinde

Culture

Breaking: New Era for Oyo Kingdom as Owoade Emerges Alaafin Designate

By Web News 1200

By Taiwo Akinola

After almost three years of waiting for another monarch, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has finally approved the installation of a new Alaafin of Oyo.

He is Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, explained that Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade was selected after thorough consultations and divinations, had been recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by the state Governor.

It noted that a statement to this effect had been issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademola Ojo, saying the announcement has put to rest, all the socio and legal bickerings that have ensued since the demise of the former Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi. His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.

Culture

Clerics, Monarchs, Others Hail Alaafin @8th Day Fidau

By Web News 1273

The 8th Day Inter-religious prayers for the departed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III could be likened to a day of tributes as religious and traditional leaders eulogised the impactful life of the monarch.

Leading Fidau prayers for the monarch, the Chief Imam of Oyo, Sheikh Mashood Ajokidero pointed out that Oba Adeyemi was a devout worshipper of Allah, who lived a fulfilled life.

While delivering a lecture, the Grand Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Sulaiman Faruq-Onikijipa who described death as a manifestation of God’s supremacy over all human beings enjoined people to be conscious of the day they would render their stewardship before Allah.

The cleric who stressed that Oba Adeyemi was a prominent creature before God, cautioned people against passing unwarranted comments about his private life.

The chairman, of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Oyo zone, Reverend Akin Alabi while describing the Alaafin as a monarch who accommodated all religions, urged Nigerians to live in accordance with the will of God.

Speaking on behalf of all traditional rulers, the Ona Onibode of Igboho land, Oba Abdrosheed Jayeola attributed the elevation of many traditional rulers in Oke-Ogun to the crown-wearing status to the efforts of the departed Alaafin and called on the Oyomesi to source for a suitable successor for the sustenance of Yoruba culture.

Bashorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade-Ayoola stated that the death of Oba Adeyemi was a collective loss to the Yoruba race.

The Seriki Fulani of Oyo State, Yakubu Bello and the Igbo Leader of Oyo State, Chief Aloysius Chukwu described Oba Adeyemi as detribalised, peace-loving and an enigma worthy of emulation.

In an interview with Radio Nigeria, a representative of the Yoruba people in the Bènin Republic, Dr Clement Kusiade, the Umu Muminat of Oyo State, Alhaja Kafilat Kaola and an aide to Oba Adeyemi, Mr Chinedu Joel described the monarch as a rare gem who showcased Yoruba culture across the world, saying the monarch would be missed for his fatherly role. 

The well-attended prayer session had in attendance the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, represented by Oba Adekunle Adebowale, the Olubaban of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, represented by the Osi Olubaban, High Chief Edward Oyewole, and the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi.

Sherifdeen Nashirdeen

Culture

Alaafin: Oyo Government Pays Condolence Visit to Family

By Web News 1442

Oyo State government has paid a condolence visit to the palace of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi to commiserate with the family and people of Oyo town over the demise of the late monarch who passed on in the early hours of Saturday. 

Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Bayo Lawal who led the state delegation equally visited the eldest wife of the late monarch, Olori Abibat Adeyemi and duly signed the condolence register. 

Speaking thereafter, Chief Lawal lamented the passing of the monarch, describing him as a revered king who would be sorely missed.

He equally noted that the state would soon commence plans in earnest to accord the late Alaafin necessary traditional rites as well as befitting state burial.

Residents of Oyo town and mourners across the state had trooped to the palace in large numbers to mourn the demise of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. Iyabo Adebisi

Entertainment

Photos of Beautiful Wives of Late Alaafin Adeyemi

By Web News 2747

Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, one of the most respected Yoruba monarchs has passed on to join his ancestors. The respected monarch, while alive had a good taste for women left behind elegant wives, some of them are beautiful and younger.

Recently, some Alaafin’s pictures with seven of his beautiful, fair-skinned, younger wives went viral on the Internet and it became a topic of discussion as all the wives looked pretty in similar attires. They were all gaily dressed in the same outfit with similar shoes and bags to complement their outing.

Olaolu Fawole

Culture

Alaafin: We have lost a royal Institution – Makinde

By Web News 1202


Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has declared that the death of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, is a huge loss to the state, Nigeria and the Yoruba race.
The governor, who described Oba Adeyemi’s death as a personal loss to him, noted that he was an ever-supportive royal father and a worthy leader, who spared nothing in trying to make Oyo State and Nigeria greater.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quoted the governor as saying that Kabiyesi’s words of advice and guidance were always golden and helpful.
The statement indicates that the governor expressed his condolences to the Oyo State Traditional Council, the Oyomesi, Oba Adeyemi’s immediate family, the people of Oyo Kingdom and the entire Yoruba race, praying to God to grant repose to the soul of the departed monarch.
The governor, who stated that apart from Oyo State losing its last man standing in the rank of experienced monarchs with long years of royal leadership, it has also lost a royal institution and an authority, which Alaafin Olayiwola Adeyemi III had become by virtue of his high-octane understanding of Yoruba history, politics and national development.
Makinde said: “I have been informed about the death of our father, His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III.“I express heartfelt condolences to the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, which Oba Adeyemi chaired for decades, the Oyomesi and the entire people of Oyo Kingdom.
“I equally commiserate with the Oloris, children and entire Adeyemi family on the demise of their patriarch and worthy father.
“Kabiyesi’s departure is a huge loss not only to Oyo State, to which he committed 52 years of his life as the Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom, but also to Nigeria and the entire Yoruba race.“Oba Adeyemi was our last man standing in the rank of most eminent royal fathers with long years of leadership. 
“He became a golden king, an institution and an authority rolled into one by virtue of his immense experience, wisdom and understanding of Yoruba history, royalty and politics. “Oba Adeyemi not only elevated the Alaafin throne with his knowledge and wisdom, he became a worthy exemplar for royal leadership in Africa and brought glory to Oyo State and Nigeria. Kabiyesi never spared anything in his strive to make Oyo State greater and to bring about the Nigeria of everyone’s collective dream.
“Personally, Kabiyesi’s death is a great loss to me, because he proved to be a worthy father and had been ever so supportive of our government. “His words of advice and guidance were always golden and helpful.
“It is my prayer that God accepts Kabiyesi’s soul into Aljanah Firdaus and uphold everyone and everything he left behind.

Iyabo Adebisi

Culture

Oba Lamidi Adeyemi was a patriotic, people-loving monarch – Obasanjo

By Web News 1544

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has described the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi as a symbol of a nation’s epic struggle for self-discovery and self-actualisation.

Chief Obasanjo in a condolence to the Oyo State governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde which was made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, stated that the late highly revered monarch was a patriotic and highly respected traditional ruler who had immeasurable love for his people.

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo greeting Oba Lamidi Adeyemi

The former president said late Oba Adeyemi lived with a great faith in a united Nigeria, noting that he stood out as a voice of forthrightness in national affairs and he was a fervent promoter of mutual tolerance and understanding not only among the diverse people who live in his domain but also across the country.

Chief Obasanjo noted that the reign of the late monarch transformed Oyo Town to the modern city that it has become and as well his contribution to nation-building leading to his conferment with the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic and other honorary degrees received from some Nigerian and international educational institutions.

The former president who is presently in Ethiopia condoled with the Oyo State governor, the family of Oba Adeyemi and the entire people of Oyo on the transition of the monarch.

Wale Oluokun

News

Breaking: Alaafin of Oyo Joins Ancestors

By Web News 1347

There are indications that Alaafin of Oyo, Lamidi Adeyemi might have joined his ancestors

Source has it that Alaafin Adeyemi, the third from the Alowodu Ruling House, died in the late hours of Friday at the Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.

The remains of the top Yoruba traditional ruler were brought to Oyo in the early hours of Saturday and traditional rites began, palace sources said

He was 83 years old and the longest reigning Alaafin ever, having ruled for 52 years.

The Monarch was reported to have been sick and a plan had been made to fly him abroad before he passed on late Friday night.

A source familiar with the medical travel plan said his tickets and those of a few wives were already procured.

His death came after the two other senior Oyo State monarchs the Soun of Ogbomoso, Jimoh Oyewumi and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji died. All happened in less than five months.

Net/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Security

Oyo Governor Reads Riot Act to Land-Grabbers

By Web News 701

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has warned that his administration would not tolerate activities of land-grabbers and illegal miners intending to stir up unfavourable security situations in the state. 

The governor gave the warning during a consultative meeting with critical stakeholders on security held at the State Secretariat in Ibadan.

He emphasized that his government would not allow challenges of insecurity faced in other parts of the country to replicate in the state

Governor Makinde further noted that though the security situation was currently stable in the state there was a need for improvement especially with pockets of threats still subsisting.

The governor who called for the support of the traditional institutions and synergy among security agencies tasked chairmen of local government areas and LCDAs to refrain from unnecessary politicking and concentrate on delivering qualitative governance at the grassroots.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional institution, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, and as representative of council chairmen and others agreed that the security situation in the state has significantly improved with necessary consultations ongoing to avoid farmers and herders clashes.

In his address at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Bayo Lawal said unlike previous years, the state would experience a reduction in crime this Yuletide season as a result of the commitment of the state in proffering solutions to security challenges.

Iyabo Adebisi

News

Let’s ensure the preservation of Yoruba Culture – Prof. Osinbajo

By Web News 734

Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo has called for the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage.

Professor Osinbajo said this at the launch of Yoruba World Centre in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. 

Our correspondent reports that the event which was held at the University of Ibadan was attended by eminent sons and daughters of Yorubaland.

At the launch of the project, the vice president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo noted that the Yoruba race was embedded in the rich cultural and philosophical practices which must be preserved to ensure it never fades away.

Professor Osinbajo who lauded the initiative called for a comprehensive collation of cultural materials that are archival in nature.  

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who was represented by his deputy, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan urged the management of the proposed centre to avoid distortion of facts in data collection regarding cultural materials. 

Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi and Olubadan of Ibadan land who was represented by Ekefa Olubadan, Oloye Lekan Alabi said the dreams of reviving the Yoruba culture have been fulfilled with the proposed Yoruba world Centre.

Also speaking, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams stressed the need for the Yoruba race to lay a solid cultural foundation for the coming generations.

When completed, the Yoruba World Centre will have a standard library, an archive, a museum, a recreation, reconstruction and digital centre, a broadcasting and film village, and an artificial zoo.

Lilian Ibomor

Security

Alaafin, Chiefs, Archbishop Ladigbolu, Visit Abolongo Custodial Centre

By Web News 1343

As a result of the prison break that occurred on Friday night, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi has paid an unscheduled visit to the prison.

The monarch in the company of his chiefs and some community leaders arrived at the prison at exactly 10 minutes to 10:00.

The monarch after inspecting the damaged area urged the government to do everything possible to repair the affected area.

He also commiserated with the families of those that were killed in the incident.

Also on the entourage of the monarch was Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu.

Meanwhile, security personnel including the police, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters and journalists were all standing by waiting for the arrival of the Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola.

Abisola Oluremi

Politics

Lekan Salami Stadium unveiling: Alaafin, Olubadan not stopped from entering – Oyo Govt

By Web News 850

The Government of Oyo State, on Thursday, explained that two first class monarchs, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I, were not stopped from entering the Lekan Salami Stadium Complex during the unveiling of its main bowl on Wednesday.

The government, in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, said that the two foremost royal fathers were too important to the state government to be prevented from attending the event, to which they had been duly invited.

According to the statement, the inability of the monarchs to gain access into the main bowl was because of the huge enthusiastic crowd that swarmed on the stadium and obstructed the movement of the monarchs’ convoys to the designated VVIP Drop Off zone, which was the easiest channel to their reserved seats.

“What happened was that security operatives advised that the drivers of the revered monarchs make their way through another gate, since their convoys were unable to access the VVIP Drop Off Zone from the gate they entered through.

“From the VVIP Drop Off Zone, it would be easy for the monarchs to access the VVIP box without meandering through the stairs, as that would have unduly stressed them given their age.” the statement said.

It added that seats of the monarchs were already reserved, and that the government valued their presence, saying: “It is unthinkable that some individuals would try to create a wedge between the palaces of the respective monarchs and the state government, which holds them in high esteem.”

The statement noted that all other monarchs who were inside the VVIP box including the Olugbon of Ile Igbon, Aseyin of Iseyin, the Okere of Saki, the Olu of Igboora were well recognized, stating that “this was an evidence that the government places huge premium of respect on the stools of our forebears as occupied by the Kabiyesis.

“His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde wishes to categorically state that the Alaafin and the Olubadan were well-expected at the event and that their seats were reserved.

“The government frowns on reports indicating that the convoys of the revered monarchs were not treated accordingly and would take appropriate steps to correct any untoward indication,” the statement added.

The statement, however, cautioned fake news mongers, whom it said were seeking avenues to punctuate the glorious event at the Lekan Salami Stadium by circulating bad news.

“For instance, some online reports claimed that the Aseyin of Iseyin was not allowed entry. That is very far from the truth. The Aseyin was inside the stadium and he stayed throughout the event.

“It is instructive that the Kabiyesi has come out to clarify that falsehood and also adduce reasons, which could have been responsible for the inability of the Alaafin of Oyo and Olubadan of Ibadanland to gain access into the Stadium.

“Some of the mischief makers also alleged that former Governor Rashidi Ladoja boycotted the event and this too, is a big lie, as the Osi Olubadan attended and gave a goodwill message at the event.

“We can only advise mischief makers and fake news carriers to stop their ploys, as no antic would work against the good intentions of the governor and the positive impact that the remodelling of the once-neglected Lekan Salami Stadium has made on Oyo State.”

The governor’s media aide equally described attempts to rubbish the stadium project by some opposition elements as misguided, stating that the claim that only the stadium cost N5 billion was untrue and mischievous.

He maintained that the amount being touted was for the cost of fixing the entire sports complex, which is in phases.

“Some critics have attempted to blow the cost of fixing the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba out of proportion, especially in view of the water that logged on sections of the pitch due to heavy rain.

“Let it be placed on record that the main bowl of the stadium was only the first phase of the entire project which comes in phases. There is the main bowl, the gymnasium and indoor sports hall for a variety of sporting activities, a world class Tennis court as well as the luxury apartments which will be given out on annual subscription.

“Besides, the pitch as seen on Wednesday is work in progress, because the contractor has not handed over the project to the state government. The contractor had explained that the pitch needed three more months to fully solidify so that the automatic drainage system would become fully functional.

“But the unveiling had to be done to ensure that our darling Shooting Stars Sports Club returns to Ibadan, having been forced to play their matches outside the state for so long owing to absence of a good pitch in Ibadan.

“The contractor has given his assurance to address the challenges of the pitch and by the time the works are completed, Oyo State would definitely have the value for its money, which has always been the priority and intention of Governor Makinde.”

Signed

Taiwo Adisa

Chief Press Secretary to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde

September 2, 2021.

Culture

I will support any agenda towards the unity of Yorubas – Makinde

By Web News 1180

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says his government will support any agenda geared towards promoting unity and regional integration among the Yorubas across the world to enrich culture and expand the economy. 

He gave the assurance when he received a delegation of Yoruba paramount ruler from Benin republic, and the Onimeko of Imekoland, led by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

Governor Makinde said a stronger bond of brotherhood among the Yorubas or national boundaries would assist in addressing security challenges facing the country through sharing of coordinated intelligence.

He appreciated the efforts of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi for fostering cordiality and unity of purpose among the Yorubas noting that his fatherly role is admirable. 

In an interview, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Adeyemi emphasized that the traditional institution would not relent in its role of assisting government to guarantee security of lives and properties.

Earlier, Emeritus Professor of History, Anthony Ijaola recounted historical antecedence of brotherhood amongst Yorubas from other countries, and explained that harmony should continually be sustained.

The Alaketu of Ketu kingdom in Cotonou, Oba Adejumo Akanni, and the Onimeko of Imekoland, Oba Benjamin Olanito including their queens and other chiefs were on the entourage of the Alaafin.

Iyabo Adebisi

Health

Alaafin Flags off Free Medical Treatment in Oyo

By Web News 1144

In line with his belief that health is wealth, but essentially to mark his 82nd birthday anniversary, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi has flagged off a three-day free medical treatment programme for people of the ancient town.

The programme, which is being coordinated by an NGO from the northern part of the country, is for ailments related to diabetes, hepatitis, hypertension, ulcer, arthritis and rheumatism among others.

A cross-section of people, who turned out for registration at Alafin’s palace thanked Oba Adeyemi for the initiative and wished him more years of great service to humanity.

Earlier, chairman of Oyo Metropolitan Community, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu had described Alafin’s guesture at a time like this as a big birthday gift to his people, saying it would remain ever green in the history books.

The programme, which recorded a massive turnout, was conducted under strict Covid-19 safety protocols.

Kayode Oguntona

Lifestyle

I bear no grudge against Gov. Makinde over location of Police mobile force – Alaafin

By Web News 744

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi has said that he bears no grudge against the governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde over the location of the Police Mobile Force, Ago-Are in Oke Ogun axis of the state.

Oba Adeyemi, who stated this while receiving the governor on a courtesy visit after the commissioning of the newly renovated and equipped Primary Health Care Centre, Aafin Oyo explained that if he had any grudge, he would have communicated the same to the governor.

 The monarch urged the government to do everything within its power to revamp the primary health care sector, promising to continue to back the governor to deliver good governance to the state.

Governor Makinde stated that within the next three years, his administration would revitalize at least 351 Primary Health Care Centres across at the rate of one per Ward as they are the closest to the people.

The Executive Secretary Board, Primary Health Care, Dr. Muideen Olatunji, said PHCs had suffered neglect in the state for close to two decades, stressing that to have a sustainable, robust health service delivery, the state needed a very strong Primary Health Care system.

He commended Governor Makinde for his commitment at strengthening the primary healthcare system in the state in line with his vision on health as one of the pillars of the administration. 

Iyabo Adebisi