Former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend (Dr.) Supo Ayokunle, has enjoined the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, to be courageous and always seek divine guidance on the throne to surmount obstacles.
Ayokunle stated this while delivering a sermon at the coronation Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday at the St Michael’s Anglican Cathedral, Esiele in Oyo town.
Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, said in a statement on Monday, that the programme was organised by the LOC for the coronation of the new Alaafin of Oyo.
The renowned clergy noted that courage and bravery were essential qualities of a good leader, adding that these two qualities were imperative in the pursuit of justice, freedom, and other noble causes for peace, progress and development.
In his sermon titled: “Reigning To Lead Oyo And Yoruba People To Prominence”, Ayokunle who described Alaafin Owoade as “divinely ordained paramount ruler”, likened his journey to ascension of the throne to that of King David in the Holy Bible.
“Kabiyesi, do not think that you are alone on the throne. Be courageous, steadfast and committed. The Almighty God is standing by you and ready to assist you in leading the people aright.
“Be afraid of no on , but your God at all times. Call on Him and He will not let you down. Your mission shall surely be accomplished”, he said.
The clergy who pointed out that the primary assignment of the new Alaafin of Oyo was how to ensure that Oyo must get to the promised land said the royal father must encounter obstacles but would not be insurmountable with courage, adherence to the words of God, and prayer.
Ayokunle also urged the people of Oyo town, both at home and in the diaspora to whole-heartedly support, rally round, and show sincere love to their monarch, eschew vendetta, acrimony and rancour, as well as, be generous towards the well-being of the Alaafin, citing the holy Bible of Second Samuel chapter 5 verse 1 to 3.
Responding, Oba Akeem Owoade 1, left no congregation in doubt that he was indeed a man with a heart of gold.
According to him, “If our people feel cared for and valued for who they are, not merely what they do; we will have their hearts and their loyalty.
“This involves listening to our people and finding ways to serve them; all motivated by a desire to see them succeed”.
“For the new Alaafin, the emphasis is on principles rather than rules. This is because rules modify behaviour and principles change hearts, as anyone can adjust his or her lifestyle for a season or adhere to a structure”.
Oba Owoade pointed out that lives were truly changed through transformation rather than conformity, hence focusing on principles, teaches people wisdom which works in a multitude of situations.
He pledged to follow through on promises and maintain ethical standards, in order to foster an environment where people feel secured and valued, encouraging open communication and collaboration.
The monarch who swore with his life that he neither knew nor met both the Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, before his appointment as the new Alaafin of Oyo, said, “I never knew I would be the next Alaafin of Oyo, as I was neither desperate nor cutting the corners in order to become the Alaafin at all costs . It was the will of God.
“I extended my hands of fellowship to those we contested together for the stool, to join hands with me in the name of God, in transforming our town to enviable heights.
“Let us remember that united we stand, divided we fall. In unity lies the strength and togetherness devoid of bickering and acrimony. We will successfully accomplish the arduous task ahead”.
Oba Owoade also restated unalloyed commitment to his agenda and assured the people that he meant what he said and should be taken for his words.
He was accompanied by his wife, Ayaba Abiwunmi whose joy knew no bounds, as she danced to the melodious music supplied by the Church choir.
Other members on the entourage included some members of the Oyo traditional Council (Oyo Mesi), including: the Samu, the Agba Akin, Baba Iyaji of Oyo (Head of royal families in Oyo town), the elevated Baales to Part 2 traditional rulers, and Owoade families.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of a customised Holy Bible to Alaafin Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1.
