19th February ,2025
Oni Kehinde
News desk
The Oyo State Government has ramped up security and logistics preparations for the coronation of Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, set to take place on April 5, 2025, at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo.
Chairman of the coronation committee and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, announced this on Wednesday, February 19, following a meeting held at the Ministry’s Conference Room.
In his opening remarks, Otunba Ojo reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring a seamless, secure, and memorable coronation. He highlighted that the installation committee, inaugurated earlier this month, had been divided into subcommittees working closely with the Local Organizing Committee to coordinate crucial aspects of the event, including security, cultural displays, and logistics.
The 25-member installation committee includes representatives from the Alaafin’s palace, state government officials, state assembly members, executive chairmen from the Oyo zone, and other key stakeholders. Otunba Ojo revealed that the Commissioner for Health had also been brought into the committee to oversee health and safety measures ahead of the grand occasion.
Debunking Threat Rumors
Addressing speculations about possible threats to the coronation due to the absence of an Osun monarch, Otunba Ojo dismissed the claims as “malicious” and a “distortion of historical facts about the Oyo traditional monarchy.” He assured the public that all traditional rites and protocols were being meticulously followed and that there were no obstacles preventing the coronation from proceeding as scheduled.
The Commissioner emphasized that the event is expected to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, including traditional rulers, government officials, and prominent figures from various sectors. He urged residents and stakeholders to cooperate with security personnel and adhere to guidelines to ensure a peaceful and successful celebration.
Security Assurances
The Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Governor, Compol Fatai Owoseni, and the Executive Assistant on Security Matters, Compol Sunday Odukoya, both confirmed that maximum security measures were being put in place for the coronation.
A Royal Milestone
Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, born on July 17, 1975, was officially presented with the staff and certificate of office by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025, marking a new chapter in the rich history of the Oyo traditional monarchy.
