The Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers of Oyo, have expressed strong opposition to Governor Seyi Makinde’s approval of Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, citing violations of cultural and traditional practices in the selection process.
On Friday, January 10, 2025, Governor Makinde announced Owoade’s appointment, sparking controversy as five out of the seven kingmakers—Yusuf Akinade (Bashorun), Wakeel Akindele (Lagunna), Hamzat Yusuf (Akinniku), Wahab Oyetunji (representing Asipa), and Gbadebo Mufutau (representing Alapinni)—rejected the decision, describing it as illegal.
The kingmakers claim they had already selected Prince Lukman Adelodun Gbadegesin as Alaafin in September 2022, in accordance with the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1967, which governs the traditional selection process. According to their lawyer, Adekunle Sobaloju, the majority of the kingmakers agreed on Gbadegesin and forwarded his name to the governor for approval. However, the governor neither approved the nomination nor provided reasons for withholding his consent.
The kingmakers argue that the governor’s recent actions, including a meeting held on January 9, 2025, with a few kingmakers and temporary chiefs to install Owoade, contravene the established chieftaincy laws. They maintain that only the Bashorun, the head of the Oyomesi, has the authority to convene a meeting to decide the next Alaafin.
Describing the governor’s actions as unlawful and an infringement on Oyo’s traditional heritage, the kingmakers have filed a lawsuit to prevent further interference and are urging the people of Oyo to remain calm as the matter is resolved in court.
“We advise the governor to step back and allow the kingmakers to conduct the process in line with our cultural and traditional norms,” the group stated. They reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the integrity of Oyo’s heritage and ensuring the proper selection of the next Alaafin.
