Alaafin-Designate Owoade Returns from Canada After Seven Weeks to Begin Traditional Rites Ahead of April 5 Coronation Amid Grand Preparations and Ongoing Legal Challenges to His Appointment
IKEJA, LAGOS – After a seven-week stay in Canada, Oba Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo-designate, arrived at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, on Wednesday evening. He is scheduled to return to Oyo town today, Thursday, ahead of his coronation on April 5.
Oba Owoade’s return follows his receipt of the certificate and staff of office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13. Shortly after, he traveled to Canada, where he is a real estate investor, financial services businessman, and Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, to finalize personal and professional matters.
Rotimi Osuntola, the Chief of Staff to the Alaafin-designate, confirmed his arrival and called for Oyo indigenes to welcome their new monarch. Stakeholders in Oyo town have also confirmed receiving news of his return.
Upon his arrival in Oyo, Oba Owoade will commence traditional rites, including those at the Baba Iyaji residence and the Koso chamber, culminating in his coronation. These rites involve spiritual guidance from the Oluawo (Ifa priest) and participation from the Oyo Mesi, priests, and priestesses.
Meanwhile, preparations for the April 5 coronation are underway by both state and local organizing committees. However, the coronation faces legal challenges. Prince Lukman Gbadegesin has filed a lawsuit alleging that Owoade’s appointment violates the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961. Prince Ismaila Owoade has also filed a separate lawsuit challenging his exclusion from the selection process. Both lawsuits name Governor Seyi Makinde as a defendant.
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