The ancient town of Oyo, on Saturday, witnessed a historic moment as Oba Abimbola Owoade was formally installed as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who joined his ancestors on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.

The elaborate coronation ceremony, which held at the premises of Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo, attracted a mammoth crowd, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and eminent personalities from all walks of life.

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, led a powerful delegation to the event, reaffirming the state government’s support for the stool of the Alaafin and the preservation of Yoruba heritage.

Prominent traditional rulers who graced the occasion included the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, among others.

In anticipation of the grand ceremony, the state government beefed up security across the ancient town and neighbouring communities, deploying operatives to strategic locations to ensure peace and order throughout the celebration.

It would be recalled that Oba Owoade had earlier received the staff and instrument of office from Governor Makinde on January 13, 2025, during a formal presentation ceremony held in Ibadan.

The new Alaafin completed his traditional rites of passage, known as Oro Ipebi, on March 29, signifying the conclusion of all cultural processes required before ascending the throne.

With the installation of Oba Owoade, the Oyo Kingdom has officially opened a fresh chapter in its storied monarchy.