After spending nearly seven weeks in Canada, the Alaáfin of Oyo-designate, Oba Akeem Owoade, arrived at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, on Wednesday evening. His return marks a crucial step toward his official coronation as the 45th Alaáfin of Oyo, scheduled for April 5, 2025.
Owoade, a real estate investor and financial services businessman, had traveled back to Canada just hours after receiving his certificate and staff of office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13. His trip was reportedly necessary to conclude his professional engagements, including his role as a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s largest power and natural gas utility providers.
Confirming his return, his Chief of Staff, Rotimi Osuntola, called on Oyo indigenes to give the incoming monarch a grand welcome as he makes his way to Oyo town today (Thursday). Stakeholders in Oyo have also begun mobilizing to receive him, with many planning to accompany his entourage from Ibadan.
In the coming days, Oba Owoade will commence the sacred traditional rites leading to his coronation. These rites include rituals at the Baba Iyaji residence, seclusion at the Ipebi, and his eventual crowning at the Koso chamber, where he will receive his royal headdress, symbolizing his ascension to the throne.
Despite the excitement, legal challenges persist regarding Owoade’s appointment. Two lawsuits, one filed by Prince Lukman Gbadegesin and another by Ismaila Owoade, are seeking to overturn his selection, citing alleged irregularities in the process. However, preparations for the coronation remain in full swing as both state and local organizing committees intensify efforts to ensure a grand ceremony on April 5.
