After spending approximately seven weeks in Canada, the Alaafin of Oyo-designate, Oba Akeem Owoade, returned to Nigeria on Wednesday evening, landing at Murtala Mohammed Airport in Ikeja. He is slated to travel to his hometown of Oyo today.
Owoade’s arrival comes just weeks ahead of his official coronation as the 45th Alaafin of Oyo, set for April 5. On January 13, he was presented with his certificate and staff of office by the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. During the event, the governor announced that the coronation would occur within four weeks.
Following the announcement, Owoade promptly left Nigeria, returning to Canada to resign from his prior business engagements. Owoade is a well-regarded real estate investor and financial services businessman, currently serving as the Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, a leading electric power and natural gas utility in Canada.
The Chief of Staff to the Alaafin-designate, Rotimi Osuntola, confirmed his return, encouraging Oyo indigenes to come out in large numbers to welcome their new king. “He arrived safely in Nigeria on Wednesday evening and will be in Oyo town by noon on Thursday,” Osuntola stated, expressing his anticipation for a warm reception from the community.
As stakeholders in Oyo town prepare for the royal welcome, many are set to travel to Ibadan to accompany Owoade’s entourage back to Oyo. In the following days, Owoade will participate in traditional rites leading up to his coronation on April 5.
The enthronement process involves various rituals at the Baba Iyaji residence and the Koso chamber, where Owoade will be crowned with a royal headdress, signifying his spiritual authority. The Ipebi (seclusion) ritual, involving the Oluawo (Ifa priest) and other priestly figures, will ensure the spiritual well-being of the Alaafin.
Meanwhile, preparations for the coronation are well underway despite legal challenges contesting Owoade’s appointment. One lawsuit filed by Prince Lukman Gbadegesin alleges that Owoade’s selection violates Oyo State’s Chiefs Law and a previous Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration. This suit seeks to annul Owoade’s appointment and prevent him from assuming his royal duties.
Additionally, another lawsuit has been filed by Ismaila Owoade, another prince and former aspirant, challenging his exclusion from the selection process that led to Owoade’s appointment. These legal proceedings could impact the upcoming coronation as the community eagerly awaits the official ascension of their new king.
