By Adeyinka Adeniran
Ahead of the April 5 coronation ceremony, Oyo state government on Monday inaugurated a 25man committee for the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
The coronation, according to the government will take place at Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo conducted the inauguration of the installation committee on Monday at the Conference Room of the Ministry.
According to the Commissioner, the development follows the official presentation of the staff and certificate of office to Oba Owoade by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025.
He explained that the installation committee has been broken down into sub committees for effective coordination and planning towards a smooth coronation ceremony.
The newly formed committee comprises members from the Alaafin’s palace, the Oyo State Government, and other key stakeholders. Their mandate includes organizing a coronation ceremony that honors the rich cultural heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.
Members of the installation committee include the Commissioner For LG/Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, Commissioner for Budget, Prof Musibau Babatunde, Prince Dotun Oyelade (Commissioner for Information and Orientation), Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun (Commissioner for Culture and Tourism) Prince Abiodun Owoade, Prince Adeniyi Owoade, Chairman ALGON, Sikiru Sanda and the Executive Chairman, Atiba local government.
Others are: Executive Assistant (Security) to the Governor, CP Sunday Odukoya, Director General Protocol, Otunba Gboyega Badejo, Salami B. Akeem, (Chairman, Oyo West), Olufemi Aikomo (Afijio LG Chairman), Executive Chairman, Oyo East LG and Dr. Ganiyu Ajayi.
The list also has: Member, House of Reps, Hon. Oyekola Gbenga (OYHA Member), Imma Bolaji, Mr Oguntona, Permnant Secretary Protocol/Government House, Mr J. O. Ajagbe, Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, Mrs Titilayo Ahmadu, Nureni Alade, Prince Deji Oparinde, Rasheedat Akindele Owoade, SSA MLS/CM and Mr. A. M. Olajire, (Director of Chieftaincy)
The Commissioner also disclosed that the coronation ceremony is anticipated to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, including traditional rulers, government officials, and prominent figures from various sectors.
The government assured the public that all necessary arrangements are being made to ensure a successful and memorable coronation ceremony while security measures, cultural displays, and other logistical considerations are being meticulously planned to reflect the significance of the historic occasion.
