The traditional kingmakers of Oyo Kingdom known as Oyomesi has vehemently kicked against the chpuce of Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, to uphold the appointment of Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo,
Following the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in 2022, Mr Makinde on Friday, announced the appointment of Mr. Owoade, a move that has sparked controversy among the Oyo kingmakers.
Five prominent members of the Oyomesi have publicly opposed the appointment, arguing that the selection process violated established traditions and legal procedures.
The kingmakers contended that the governor’s involvement in the selection process was improper, stating that the appointment should have been made through a majority vote among the kingmakers, in accordance with the Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.
“In strict compliance with the Registered Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration of 1967, only the Bashorun of Oyo, as the head of the Oyomesi and Kingmakers, has the authority to convene a meeting to select a candidate for the vacant Alaafin stool,” they asserted in a statement.
Despite these objections, the Oyo State Government has maintained its stance. According to Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information, the government will not engage in further public debates on the matter at this time.
“We will provide further comments as necessary. Currently, the government stands by its initial statement,” Oyelade affirmed in an interview with a popular online medium.
The dispute, WesternLifeNewsNG understands underscores a significant challenge in traditional leadership succession in Oyo State, highlighting the complexities between governmental authority and traditional customs in appointing revered monarchs.
