By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade has installed Alhaja Muinat Adeniran, as the new Iyalode of Oyo.
The colourful installation ceremony took place at over the weekend the Aganju ForeCourt in the ancient Palace.
The Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye in a statement on Monday noted that, Wife of the Alaafin, Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade while speaking at the event emphasised that, one who holds title from the Alaafin must be found suitable for it, hence the need for the new Iyalode to comport herself in such manner because the chieftaincy title is rooted with tradition.
She urged the new Iyalode to let her allegiance be total to the Alaafin, acts as the emotional and structural backbone of the city through active caregiving, economic contribution, and social leadership.
Ayaba Owode said, “Your true dedication to building the city will consider others more important than yourself. You must showcase this by looking also to the interest of others. You must rejoice in opportunities to be inconvenienced, understanding that these inconveniences are gifts from the gracious hand of God that desires a heart of compassion and mercy.
‘As a woman who is truly dedicated to building the city, you must be hospitable, seeking to swing wide the doors of heart and home. Your neighborhood will find respite within the walls of your home, and refuge in the conversation and encouragement you offer.
“You must not allow divisive or cruel speech in your presence, but uplift others, and maintain confidences whenever safe to do so. Be quick to praise and slow to criticize. You must be mindful of how your words and actions impact the people, striving to be fair, kind, and emotionally aware, and be selfless, stand up consistently for what’s good and right even when it’s unseen or unpopular, and never yield integrity to what’s convenient or common.”
Responding, the new Iyalode of Oyo, Alhaja Adeniran pledged her unalloyed allegiance to the Alaafin and wellbeing of the people at all times.
She also promise to display great dynamism, and display ingenuity and creativity in finding alternative to any situation, as well as foster and mobilise collectively at creating conducive atmosphere for the peaceful reign of the Paramount Ruler on the throne.
