New Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, Declares Official Title Amid Legal Challenge

His Imperial Majesty Title Officially Adopted

The newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has officially declared that he will be addressed as His Imperial Majesty. In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the new monarch urged the public and media to adhere strictly to this title when referring to him in official engagements.

The statement clarified the correct format for addressing the Alaafin:

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“HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY IKU BABA YEYE OBA ABIMBOLA AKEEM OWOADE I ALAAFIN OF OYO”

It also emphasized that the Roman numeral “I” after Owoade should not be confused with the Arabic numeral “1”.

“The public is enjoined to adhere strictly to use the wordings as exactly as stated above and without adding prefix or suffix to any of the names as stated above,” the statement read.

The official proclamation of the title is part of the traditions associated with the Alaafin’s esteemed position in Yoruba history and culture.

Prince Lukman Gbadegesin Challenges Owoade’s Appointment in Court

Meanwhile, a contender for the Alaafin stool, Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, has taken legal action against the appointment of Oba Owoade, seeking to nullify his selection.

On February 12, 2025, Gbadegesin filed a lawsuit at the Oyo State High Court, arguing that the process leading to Owoade’s appointment was unlawful and violated the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, as well as the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.

Through his legal representative, Kunle Sobaloju (SAN), Gbadegesin claimed that the Oyomesi (kingmakers) had already selected him as the rightful candidate for the Alaafin throne before Governor Seyi Makinde approved Owoade’s appointment.

He further alleged that Makinde’s approval, which was granted within five days, was rushed and did not follow due process. Gbadegesin is now demanding a court declaration to affirm his nomination as the legitimate one.

Traditional and Legal Battles Loom Over Oyo Throne

The appointment of an Alaafin is a significant event in Yoruba history, often accompanied by deep traditional and legal considerations. The ongoing court battle suggests that the controversy over the throne is far from over, and the final outcome will depend on the judicial process.

As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the Oyo State High Court to determine whether Oba Owoade’s reign will stand unchallenged or if the legal dispute will alter the course of history in the ancient kingdom.