The Ooni of Ife and Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on Saturday, congratulated Prince Abimbola Owoade on his appointment as the new Alaafin of Oyo.
Ooni Ogunwusi in a statement by the Director, Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, also praised Oyo state government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, for providing the enabling environment and supporting the smooth transition that has now birthed a new royal era.
He commended the patience displayed by the royal family, kingmakers, and the people of Oyo home and in diaspora throughout the sacred process which lasted over two years,
According to the Ooni, “this monumental decision heralds a new era of prosperity, unity, and cultural preservation for the great people of Oyo.
“The House of Oduduwa, under the leadership of Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, congratulates the Alaafin-elect, Prince Abimbola Owoade, on his appointment as the new custodian of the timeless heritage of Oyo Kingdom.”
Ooni Ogunwusi added, “This monumental decision heralds a new era of prosperity, unity, and cultural preservation for the great people of Oyo.
“Historically, Oyo and Ile-Ife share an unbreakable bond rooted in divine origin. Oyo, a very important crown jewel in Yoruba land derives its authority from Ile-Ife, the cradle of all Yoruba race. This interconnected lineage emphasizes the significance of the Alaafin’s throne, which remains a vital pillar in the structure of Yoruba traditional governance and heritage.”
Ooni Ogunwusi maintained that the “appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade signifies the continuation of this sacred bond and the unwavering strength of the Yoruba cultural legacy.”
“We are confident that the Alaafin-elect will build upon the enduring legacy of his predecessors particularly the immediate past Alaafin; Late Oba Lamidi Atanda Adeyemi III who had ruled Oyo with enviable and sterling leadership quality.
“You have now become father of all who must really all other contestants for the growth of Oyo kingdom because you can not do it alone, please be ready to serve your people as a beacon of hope, justice, and development for Oyo people and Yoruba race at large. Your ascension is a testament to the resilience of our traditions and the shared aspiration for progress across the Yoruba race”.
Ooni Ogunwusi stressed “the House of Oduduwa calls on the sons and daughters of Oyo, from all walks of life, to rally around their new monarch and work together to uphold the glory of the kingdom. It is through collective support and collaboration that Oyo will continue to thrive and maintain its place as a cornerstone of Yoruba greatness.
“As we celebrate this historic moment, the House of Oduduwa reiterates its commitment to fostering unity among Yoruba monarchs, preserving our shared cultural identity, and ensuring the prosperity of all Yoruba people worldwide.”
