Oyo Town, Nigeria — In a bold cultural move to preserve the rich heritage of the Yoruba people, the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has announced plans to reconstruct the iconic 200-year-old Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo town.
The announcement came shortly after Oba Owoade officially ascended the throne as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who passed away in April 2022. The coronation ceremony was held at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, with prominent dignitaries, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, in attendance.
To ensure the success and safety of the coronation, the state government heightened security across the city, showing strong support for the new monarch.
Speaking in an interview published by the Nigerian Tribune on April 5, 2025, Oba Owoade revealed that the palace, originally built by Alaafin Atiba ‘Latunbosun, the first Alaafin in present-day Oyo, has never undergone a major reconstruction since its creation almost two centuries ago.
“If you have been to the Aafin, you will agree with me that it needs some repairs. Some new buildings need to be constructed, and some need to be renovated. We are looking at reconstructing the palace without compromising the standard, culture, and tradition,” Oba Owoade stated.
The monarch emphasized that while structural improvements are needed, the essence of Yoruba culture, tradition, and the historical identity of the Aafin would remain untouched.
Oba Owoade shared his unexpected journey to the throne in a heartfelt reflection. Living in Canada at the time, he initially declined the call from his family—the Mogajis—to join the contest for the Alaafin stool.
“I said I was not interested,” he admitted. “But after some persuasion, I gave in. Thank God I am here today as the Alaafin, and I am in Oyo to stay.”
Earlier reports confirmed that Oba Owoade unveiled his official title on March 18, 2025, and would henceforth be addressed as His Imperial Majesty.
His appointment was ratified by Governor Makinde following extensive consultations and traditional divination by the Oyomesi, the council of kingmakers. Dotun Oyelade, Oyo State’s commissioner for information and orientation, confirmed the approval on January 19, 2025.
The historic reconstruction of Alaafin’s Palace is expected to draw national and international attention, further establishing Oyo as a beacon of Yoruba cultural pride and resilience.
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