The newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has called on the indigenes and residents of the ancient town to celebrate his forthcoming coronation with moderation, stressing the importance of peace and communal unity for the town’s growth.
In a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Oba Owoade, who ascended the throne in January 2025 following the passing of the late Oba Adeyemi, reminded the people of Oyo that “beating the drums of vendetta, persecution, and acrimony” would not serve their collective interest.
“Promoting peace and communal unity is a collective responsibility of every indigene of the ancient town, Peace and unity are crucial for community development, as they foster personal growth, robust institutions, and an enabling environment for infrastructural development,” the monarch said.
The monarch further emphasised that now is the time to build a sustainable and formidable communal unity in Oyo, urging all residents to encourage good relationships within the town and its surrounding areas.
Oba Owoade’s call for peace comes as the town prepares for a historic event: his coronation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo.
The new monarch, 47 years old, was presented with the staff of office on January 13, 2025, and completed the traditional 21-day rites known as Oro Ipebi on March 29.
The coronation will mark the official beginning of his reign over the ancient city.
A glimpse into the life of Oba Owoade
Oba Owoade was born to a prominent and royal family of Owoade-Agunloye in Oyo town. He completed his secondary education at Baptist High School, Saki, before studying Mechanical Engineering at various institutions, including the Federal Polytechnic in Ilaro and The Polytechnic in Ibadan.
He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University, both in the United Kingdom.
A Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) since 2015, the Alaafin has had a diverse career in both Nigeria and abroad.
He worked in various engineering and managerial roles, including a position at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow, UK, before relocating to Canada. There, he served as a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s largest utilities, and became an entrepreneur with a real estate investment and financial services business.
Preparations for the coronation
As the town eagerly awaits the coronation, preparations are in full swing. According to Durojaiye, hotels and guesthouses have been fully booked for the influx of visitors, and posters and billboards featuring Oba Owoade’s image have adorned the town.
Roads are being rehabilitated to accommodate the expected motorcade, and special canopies are being erected at the Olivet Baptist High School, the main venue of the coronation.
Security measures have also been heightened for the event, and the popular Akesan market will be closed for the day. Other local markets will follow suit to ensure a smooth and secure occasion.
Residents of Oyo are in high spirits as they prepare to witness the historic event, which will be filled with pomp and pageantry, reflecting the deep cultural heritage and traditions of the town.
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