Culture

Oyo Revives Council of Obas After 15 Years

By Web News 254

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, emerging as chairman for a two-year tenure.

The council, which remained inactive for 15 years before its reconvening, will serve as an advisory body to the state government on peace-building, conflict resolution, cultural preservation, and policy formulation.

Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Makinde described the reconstitution of the council as a necessity rather than an achievement, noting that it would strengthen collaboration between the government and traditional institutions.

The governor disclosed that he had met with the three imperial monarchs in the state—the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Olaoye—and that they agreed to rotate the chairmanship of the council every two years.

In his remarks, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and current chairman of the council pledged the commitment of the traditional rulers to work collectively to improve the welfare and wellbeing of the people of Oyo State.

Radio Nigeria’s correspondent reports that the Alaafin of Oyo, who is the co-chairman of the council, was absent from the inauguration ceremony.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Culture

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

By Web News 105

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 174

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