Oyo Indigenes Overseas Pledge Support To New Alaafin

The newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I and his wife, Olori Abiwumi Owoade, have been assured by his subjects in diaspora of total support towards the realisation of the noble aspirations for the future of the ancient town.

LEADERSHIP recalls that Oba Owoade was officially unveiled by the Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde on Saturday in Oyo, as the 46th Alaafin of the ancient Oyo Empire.

Congratulating the new monarch in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, Chairman of Oyo Alaafin Sons and Daughters in the Diaspora, Princess Bilikisu Savage expressed immense joy and deep gratitude for the successful coronation of the Alaafin of Oyo.

“The coronation ceremony was not just a spectacle of tradition, but a divine affirmation of the leadership and wisdom bestowed upon Kabiyesi. We are filled with pride and joy as we witness the ascension of such a revered and distinguished monarch to the throne,” Princess Savage said.

She added that the coronation marked a new chapter in the history of the town, Oyo. “We are confident that with Kabiyesi at the helm of affairs, Oyo will continue to soar to greater heights.

“Kabiyesi, the diaspora is 100% with you. We stand united in your reign, your vision, and your noble aspirations for the future of Oyo. Your leadership is an embodiment of wisdom, integrity, and foresight, and we are truly honoured to be part of this historic moment in the growth of our great kingdom.

“We are proud to be part of this historic journey, and we trust that the legacy of your reign will be one of unparalleled greatness. We love to come to Oyo with renewed vigour and enthusiasm knowing we have a worthy unifying figure at home.

“We love to partner you in this journey to bring back the glory of Oyo Alaafin, many of us want to build homes, industries and with your support, it is a done deal. Together, we will continue to work towards the advancement and development of Oyo, united by love, respect, and our shared commitment to the progress of our kingdom,” Princess Savage said.

The diaspora group also commended the Alaafin for his foresight in establishing the office of the Chief of Staff to manage the affairs of the palace.

“This visionary step will no doubt bring order, efficiency, and further development to the administration of the palace. We are particularly grateful to you for selecting Elder Rotimi Osuntola to serve as the Chief of Staff,” she said.

Savage expressed the belief that the Chief of Staff’s wealth of experience will greatly benefit the palace and the entire Oyo community at home and abroad.

In identifying with the royal father’s mission to transform Oyo, members of the body which include Alhaji and Alhaja Musibau Adeoye Onasokun, Dr Ademola Adeleke, Princes Afolabi Aderemi, Lashley Ladigbolu, Engr Paul Olaniyi, Alhaji Hakeem and Alhaji Taoreed Owoade donated the sum of N11 million to the palace, from which N1million has been earmarked to set up the office of the Chief of Staff.

“We believe that this office will serve as a vital link between the diaspora and the palace, enabling our people abroad to connect more closely with the affairs of the town and to support Kabiyesi’s developmental aspirations,” the statement said.