By Adeyinka Adeniran
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday charged the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade to use his stool to foster peace, promote cultural identity, and support governance.
Noting that the Alaafin is more than a king, but also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride, Tinubu said he has always held the Alaafin stool in high esteem recognizing the role of traditional rulers in nation-building.
He expressed confidence in the wisdom, leadership, and dedication of the new monarch to further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large.
President Tinubu gave the charge while giving a remark at the coronation of Oba Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
The event had in attendance Governor Seyi Makinde, his wife Tamunominini, his deputy, Bayo Lawal, representatives of Governors of Osun and Ondo states, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, the Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams among others.
Speaking through the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the President said the historic occasion is not just a celebration for the great people of Oyo but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.
He added that the Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
Tinubu said, “It is with immense joy and a deep sense of honor that I stand before you today on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to witness and celebrate the coronation of a new custodian of the rich heritage of the ancient Oyo Kingdom—His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
“This historic occasion is not just a celebration for the great people of Oyo but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole. The Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
“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.
“Today, as we install a new Alaafin, we are reminded of the words of the great sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo: “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture are like a tree without roots.” The Alaafin’s throne is not just a seat of authority but a living institution that embodies our history, values, and aspirations.”
He added “Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting governance.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has always held the Alaafin in high esteem, recognizing the role of traditional rulers in nation-building. As you assume this sacred responsibility, we are confident that your wisdom, leadership, and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large.
“On this auspicious occasion, I reaffirm President Tinubu’s commitment to preserving our cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that promote our rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength.
“Also noteworthy is the fact that Oyo State remains a priority in our Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in areas of power supply, road networks, and agricultural development. Our administration is focused on youth empowerment and education in recognition of the need to develop and crystallize the potentials of our youth.
“We will continue to engage our youths positively by creating opportunities in technology, entrepreneurship, and vocational training. Most importantly, the government is committed to working with traditional rulers to ensure the safety of all citizens.
“To the great people of Oyo, I urge you to rally behind your new Alaafin, support his vision, and uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and development. Let us remember the words of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III: “A kingdom thrives when its people are united in purpose.”
He urged the new Alaafin to take a cue from his predecessor whom he described as fierce custodian of Yoruba traditions and worked tirelessly to revive ancient festivals such as the Sango festival, Oranyan festival, Isese Day and the Ogun festival, thus reinforcing Yoruba identity.
“For the Alaafin, you are on the threshold of history as successor to Oba Adeyemi III who was one of the most influential and longest-reigning monarchs in Yoruba history. His reign was a period of cultural renaissance, political influence, and socio-economic development for Oyo Town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba nation at large.
“He was a fierce custodian of Yoruba traditions and worked tirelessly to revive ancient festivals such as the Sango festival, Oranyan Festival, Isese Day and the Ogun Festival, thus reinforcing Yoruba identity. He strengthened ties with the diaspora, particularly in Brazil and Cuba, where Yoruba culture remains strong.
“Oba Adeyemi III played a pivotal role in preserving Oyo’s cultural heritage, laying the groundwork for its UNESCO recognition. He championed the documentation of Oyo’s history, restored ancient sites like the Alaafin’s Palace and Oranyan Staff.
“His advocacy attracted scholars and policymakers, highlighting Oyo’s global significance. Collaborating with Nigerian authorities, he pushed for UNESCO’s acknowledgment of Oyo as a cultural heritage site, emphasizing its role in the Yoruba empire and trans-Atlantic history. Though formal recognition is still pending, his efforts cemented Oyo’s place in world heritage discourse.
“May your tenure also witness unprecedented development and peace in Oyo.
“As you mount the throne of your forebears, we recognize that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but also a key figure who expectedly should serves as a bridge between traditional institutions and modern governance.
“The Alaafin is expected to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes, most importantly, as the Alaafin, you are more than a king, you are also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride.
“As you ascend the throne of your forefathers, I pray that the foundation laid by your predecessors will continue to guide the kingdom’s future.
“May your reign be long, prosperous, and filled with wisdom. May you lead Oyo to greater heights and continue to be a beacon of hope for our people. And may your tenure witness peace and unprecedented development in Oyo.
“K’ade pe lori, ki bata pe l’ese! Ki irukere di okini, ki ase di alase”, the President added.
