Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed to take legal action against any chiefs or kingmakers found guilty of accepting bribes during the controversial selection of the new Alaafin of Oyo. The governor’s statement came after a group of five kingmakers, known as the Oyomesi, declared the appointment of Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin null and void. The kingmakers insisted that the only name they had recommended was that of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, not Owoade.
Makinde emphasized the importance of transparency and integrity in the traditional leadership process, asserting that any chief involved in bribery would face prosecution. The governor made these remarks during the presentation of the staff of office and certificate to Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade at the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan, underscoring his commitment to upholding the law and the traditional selection procedures.
While addressing the gathering, Governor Makinde praised Prince Owoade as a leader who would preserve the cultural and historical values of the Oyo Kingdom. He expressed confidence that Owoade would lead with wisdom and foster unity within the kingdom. The governor also spoke about the pivotal role the Alaafin plays as both a traditional ruler and a custodian of Oyo’s rich heritage.
In response, the newly installed Alaafin, Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade, expressed his gratitude to the people of Oyo and pledged to focus on the kingdom’s development. He emphasized his commitment to fostering youth development, cultural preservation, and economic growth for the betterment of Oyo town and its residents.
Meanwhile, High Chief Yusuf Akinade, the Bashorun of Oyo and head of the Oyomesi, declined to comment on the issue, citing the ongoing court case. He referred any inquiries to their legal representative, highlighting that the matter was currently under judicial review.
