Kingmakers in Oyo Town have rejected the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, announced by Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday. In a letter signed by their legal representative, Adekunle Sobalolu, and addressed to the governor, the kingmakers declared the appointment null and void, describing it as illegal and unlawful. The Oyo State Government had unveiled Owoade as the Alaafin-elect, sparking controversy in the traditional council.
According to the kingmakers, Prince Owoade was never recommended to the state government for the revered throne. They asserted that on September 30, 2022, Prince Lukman Gbadegesin was unanimously selected as the Alaafin by the majority of the kingmakers through lawful voting. They emphasized that their decision should have been final and binding, as it adhered to traditional and legal protocols for appointing the next Alaafin.
Five prominent kingmakers have opposed the governor’s decision, standing firm in their rejection of Owoade’s appointment. Among them are the Bashorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Layinka; the Lagunna of Oyo, High Chief Wakeel Oyedepo; and the Akinniku of Oyo, High Chief Hamzat Yusuf. Others include Chief Wahab Oyetunji, representing the Asipa of Oyo, and Chief Gbadebo Mufutau, representing the Alapinni of Oyo. These kingmakers are calling for the state government to recognize their choice of Prince Gbadegesin.
In their letter, the kingmakers revealed that Prince Lukman Adelodun Gbadegesin secured the majority of their votes and his name was forwarded to the governor for approval, which was subsequently denied without explanation. They also disclosed that they had taken legal action to prevent the state government from interfering with the selection process, resulting in an ongoing appeal at the Court of Appeal. The kingmakers remain resolute, urging the government to respect traditional customs and the rule of law.
Future Alaafin: Oyo Kingmakers Oppose Owoade's Appointment