President Bola Tinubu on Saturday described the Alaafin of Oyo stool as a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
Tinubu said this during the unveiling of the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, at the Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, on Saturday.
PUNCH Online reports that Owoade, who was presented with the staff of office and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, ascended the throne as the 46th Alaafin after the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi passed away.
The new monarch completed the compulsory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi last Saturday, March 29.
Represented by the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, Tinubu noted that the throne is not just a seat of authority but a living institution that embodies Yoruba history, values, and aspirations.
He reminded the new Alaafin of late sage, Obafemi Awolowo’s word, which says, “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture are like a tree without roots.”
He said the Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future.
“Today, as we install a new Alaafin, we are reminded of the words of the great sage, late Obafemi Awolowo, “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture are like a tree without roots.
“Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting governance.
“The President has always held the Alaafin in high esteem, recognizing the role of traditional rulers in nation-building. As you assume this sacred responsibility, we are confident that your wisdom, leadership, and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large”, Tinubu said.
Tinubu, therefore, charged the people of the ancient city to rally behind the new Alaafin, support his vision, and uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and development. The president was confident that the new Alaafin’s wisdom, leadership, and dedication would further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom and Nigeria at large.
“It is with immense joy and a deep sense of honour that I stand before you today, to witness and celebrate the coronation of a new custodian of the rich heritage of the ancient Oyo Kingdom, Oba Owoade.
“This historic occasion is not just a celebration for the great people of the ancient city but for the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole. The Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
“Today’s historic event is significant for many reasons, the Oyo empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural
influence”, the President stated.
He urged the Alaafin to play a mediatory role in conflicts and various communal disputes, most importantly, saying “You are more than a king, you are also a symbol of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and pride.”
Tinubu therefore reaffirmed his commitment to preserving Yoruba cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that promote their rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a souree of strength.
Dignitaries at the event include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, the Orile-Igbon of Ilegbon, Francis Alao, Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola; the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams; Senator Yinus Akintunde representing Oyo Central; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi; and the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Kola Adewusi.
Others were former Canadian Prime Minister, ambassadors from four different countries, Chief of Staff to Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Omojua, General Diya Popoola (retd), the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin and many others.
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