Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed to prosecute individuals involved in extorting money during the new Alaafin of Oyo selection process. Speaking on Monday during the presentation of the Staff of Office to the newly appointed Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of the royal institution. He warned against financial corruption in the selection process.
Makinde emphasized the importance of the Alaafin stool to the people of Oyo State and the Yoruba race as a whole. He stated, “The Alaafin stool is not for sale. It is not a stool for us to toy with.” The governor revealed that he deliberately refrained from influencing the selection process, noting that he met the new Alaafin for the first time only a day before the presentation. “I didn’t want to add my opinion or be influenced in any way,” he added.
Condemning the politicization of traditional institutions, Makinde stressed that governance is a serious responsibility that should not be mixed with politics. He warned those attempting to destabilize traditional institutions in the state, saying, “We will not play politics with governance. Those who collected money illegally during this process will be prosecuted unless the Kabiyesi forgive them. Otherwise, I will not.”
The governor also announced that Oba Owoade’s formal coronation would take place in four weeks, with the presentation of the certificate and Staff of Office marking the beginning of his reign. Oba Owoade succeeded the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who ruled for five decades until his passing in April 2022. The new monarch’s tenure is expected to focus on cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and fostering economic growth within the Oyo Kingdom.