Ahead of the coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, today, the Oyo State government has put in place security measures, including the deployment of operatives at strategic locations within the city and the surrounding communities.
LEADERSHIP Weekend checks showed that security arrangements have been significantly enhanced ahead of the ceremony.
Police vans and vehicles of other security agencies were stationed at strategic points across the town including Owoade, Jabata, Akesan, Isale Oyo, Eleekara and the School of Survey, among other key areas.
A senior police source confirmed that additional personnel have been deployed to the town to prevent any breakdown of law and order during the coronation ceremonies.
“The police, in conjunction with other security agencies, are fully prepared to ensure a smooth and trouble-free event,” the security officer who spoke on the condition of anonymity assured.
The new monarch completed the compulsory 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi last Saturday, March 29.
The coronation event will take place at Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo, where Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to lead a host of dignitaries, including notable Nigerians.
Other venues for the event include Ladigbolu Grammar School, Durbar Stadium, the Oba Lamidi Adeyemi Mini Stadium and the Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo.
Among the dignitaries expected are the former Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudea, ambassadors from four different countries, over 200 Oyo indigenes based in Canada, traditional rulers, diplomats and various government officials.
Meanwhile, local hotels have reported full bookings, with accommodations made for the influx of visitors expected for the coronation.
A hotel manager, who requested to remain anonymous, said, “We have upgraded our facilities to ensure that our guests have a memorable stay.
The security agencies have also assured us of adequate protection for our facilities.”
It was gathered that the popular Akesan market, along with other nearby markets, would be temporarily closed during the coronation to allow the active participation of local market men and women in the event.
Oba Owoade, who was presented with the staff of office and instrument of office by Governor Makinde in Ibadan, ascends the throne after the late Oba Adeyemi passed away.
Speaking on the preparations for the event, the director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Bode Durojaiye, said besides hotels and guest houses that have been fully booked for guests, posters and billboards of the new Alaafin adorned every nook and cranny of the town.
He stated that virtually all township roads were being rehabilitated to make them motorable for invited guests who would attend the historic event as residents were in high spirits amid pomp and pageantry in a motorcade around the town.
