The appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo has generated significant discussion, reflecting the intricate dynamics of traditional leadership succession in Nigeria. As we go deep in this sensitive discussion, let me take you through his background.
Aláàfin-elect’s Background and Experience
Born in 1978 into the Owoade-Agunloye royal family in Oyo Town, Prince Owoade’s lineage is deeply embedded in the region’s history. His father, Pa Rasaki Ibiyosi Owoade, contributed to agricultural development through the Oyo North Agricultural Development Programme (ONADEP). Prince Owoade’s educational journey began outside his comfort zone at the Baptist High School, Saki, Oyo State, where he completed his secondary education in 1992. He then pursued Mechanical Engineering, obtaining a National Diploma from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and subsequently, a Higher National Diploma from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. Seeking further education, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Sunderland in 2008 and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Northumbria University in 2012. In 2015, he achieved a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
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Professionally, Prince Owoade’s career began with the Nigeria Gas Company during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 2002. He briefly worked as a teller at Oceanic Bank International Plc from 2003 to 2004 before relocating to the United Kingdom. Upon reaching there, he served as a Planning Engineer at Oil Reach Company in Glasgow. Subsequently, he moved to Canada, where he currently holds the position of Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, a leading utility provider. Additionally, he is the president of 100279 Manitoba Limited, a real estate investment and financial services firm.
Controversy Surrounding his Appointment as Alaafin
The process leading to Prince Owoade’s appointment has been fraught with disputes. Following the demise of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III in April 2022, the selection of a successor became contentious. In May 2023, nine royal families protested their exclusion from the selection process. Further complications arose in January 2025 when a faction cautioned the Oyo State Government against interference due to a pending court case. Despite these concerns, Governor Seyi Makinde approved Prince Owoade’s selection on January 10, 2025.
However, the kingmakers of Oyo, known as the Oyomesi, have expressed strong opposition to this decision. They assert that the selection did not follow the traditional procedures outlined in the Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961. Their legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju, emphasized that the proper process involves a meeting convened by the Bashorun of Oyo, which, according to them, did not occur. They had previously recommended Prince Lukman Adelodun Gbadegesin for the position, a choice that was not approved by the governor.
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The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has also criticized the appointment, labeling it illegal and a disregard for due process. They argue that the governor’s actions undermine the traditions and customs of the Oyo people.
Latest developments surrounding the matter
On January 13, 2025, Governor Seyi Makinde presented the instruments of office to the new Alaafin, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, at a ceremony held in the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. During the event, Governor Makinde emphasized that the selection process was conducted transparently, stating that he met Prince Owoade for the first time on January 12, 2025, and had no prior acquaintance with him. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the integrity of traditional institutions, asserting that the Alaafin’s stool is not for sale and should not be subjected to undue influence.
Despite the official presentation, some kingmakers and factions within Oyo maintain their reservations about the selection process, indicating that debates surrounding the appointment may continue.
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The controversies surrounding Prince Owoade’s appointment underscore the tensions between traditional institutions and governmental authority in Nigeria. The alleged bypassing of established selection procedures raises questions about the preservation of cultural heritage and the autonomy of traditional systems. As Prince Owoade assumes the throne, he faces the challenge of uniting a divided community and restoring confidence in the traditional leadership of Oyo. His diverse international experience and professional background may offer a fresh perspective, but reconciling the disputes arising from his appointment will be crucial for the stability and progress of the Oyo Kingdom.
While Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade’s ascension to the Alaafin’s throne marks the beginning of a new era in Oyo, it also highlights the challenges of leadership in a rapidly growing world. As the 46th Alaafin, he has the opportunity to redefine traditional leadership by blending the rich heritage of the Yoruba people with innovative approaches to governance. By fostering unity among the royal families, Oyomesi, and the broader Oyo community, he can ensure a harmonious reign that honors the traditions of the past while embracing the demands of the present.
The coming months will be critical in shaping the perception and legitimacy of his leadership. A transparent and inclusive approach to addressing the grievances of dissenting factions, combined with tangible efforts to implement his developmental plans, will determine whether his reign becomes a beacon of progress or a continuation of the controversies that have plagued his appointment.
Ultimately, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade’s success as the Alaafin will depend on his ability to balance tradition with modernity, uniting a divided community while steering Oyo toward a prosperous future.
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