Alaafin of Oyo Owoade extends olive branch to contestants

Oba Abimbola Owoade, the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, has called on members of the royal families, especially those who contested the throne with him, to join hands in support and collaboration to elevate the ancient Oyo town.

The monarch made this appeal during a coronation thanksgiving service held at the Anglican Cathedral Church, Esiele, in Oyo town on Sunday.

Oba Owoade emphasized that his ascension to the throne was not a result of lobbying or personal ambition, but rather the will of God. He shared that prior to his announcement as the Alaafin, he had never met or interacted with key figures like Governor Seyi Makinde and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, highlighting his belief that unity was essential for progress. The monarch urged all stakeholders to set aside differences and work together for the development of the town.

“I swear with my life that I neither knew nor met both the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu before my appointment as the Alaafin of Oyo. It was the will of God,” Oba Owoade said. He extended his hand of fellowship to his fellow contestants for the throne, urging them to collaborate in unity for the greater good of Oyo.

Dr. Supo Ayokunle, the former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), delivered the sermon at the event, encouraging the new Alaafin to embrace courage and seek divine guidance in his leadership journey. He likened Oba Owoade’s path to the throne to that of King David from the Bible and described him as a “divinely ordained paramount ruler.” Dr. Ayokunle stressed that the Alaafin’s main task was to lead Oyo to greater heights, ensuring the community’s peace, progress, and prosperity.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Alaafin’s wife, Ayaba Abiwunmi, members of the Oyo traditional council, and various royal families. A highlight of the event was the presentation of a customized Holy Bible to Oba Owoade, symbolizing the spiritual foundation of his reign.

In his concluding remarks, Oba Owoade reiterated that “united we stand, and divided we fall,” stressing the importance of solidarity and collective effort in fulfilling the leadership responsibilities ahead.