Oyo Celebrates As Oba Abimbola Owoade I Ascends Throne As 46th Alaafin

The ancient city of Oyo is a buzz with activities as it hosts the coronation ceremonies for its 46th Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I. The events, spanning from March 31 to April 12, 2025, are meticulously organized into three phases: pre-coronation, coronation, and post-coronation.

The pre-coronation festivities commenced today with a vibrant cultural carnival parade at 7:30 a.m. followed by an opening ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium, Ode Aremo. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, alongside the Coronation Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chairman, Kunle Ogunmola, presided over the events.

The pre-coronation phase, running until April 4, includes a series of cultural and educational events such as Oyo Cultural Heritage Day, historic tree planting, a public lecture, a coronation quiz competition, and a football competition. These activities aim to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Oyo.

A significant milestone in the coronation rites was reached recently when Oba Owoade completed the final traditional rite, known as Oro Ipebi, at the Sango Shrine in Koso, Oyo Town. This ritual is a crucial step in the ascension to the throne.

The main coronation ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, at Olivet Baptist Heights (OBHSO). Receptions will be held at various locations across the state to honor the new monarch. The OBHSO field has been designated for the Governor, his entourage, and other dignitaries, while the Olivet Baptist Academy will serve as a VIP parking area. Ladigbolu Grammar School has been allocated for the public, and Labamba Hotel will accommodate VIP guests.

To ensure a successful and secure coronation, the Oyo State Government inaugurated a 14-member committee last month.This committee is responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of the coronation events.

Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I was appointed as the new Alaafin of Oyo on January 10, 2025, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away on April 22, 2022.

As the city of Oyo immerses itself in the grandeur of Oba Abimbola Owoade I’s coronation, the event signifies more than just a change in leadership, it is a reaffirmation of the kingdom’s deep-rooted traditions and cultural pride. With meticulous planning, enthusiastic participation, and a lineup of events designed to celebrate heritage and unity, the coronation serves as a bridge between the past and the future of Oyo.

Now, all eyes turn to April 4 as the final days of the pre-coronation give way to the much-anticipated main coronation rites. The excitement is palpable, with dignitaries, cultural custodians, and well-wishers eagerly awaiting the historic moment when Oba Owoade I will be officially crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. As the grand ceremony approaches, the kingdom stands on the brink of a new era – one filled with promise, leadership, and the continued legacy of the revered Alaafin throne.

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