By Ayomide Otitoju
Princes from the nine royal families in Oyo, collectively known as the Atiba 9, have rejected the appointment of Abimbola Owoade as the Alaafin of Oyo. The group described the appointment as a disregard for Oyo’s revered traditions and called for adherence to due process.
The Atiba 9’s position follows Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s presentation of the staff of office to Owoade on Monday. The group accused the governor of relying on a proclamation by US-based Awise Agbaye, Prof. Wande Abimbola, who claimed Ifa chose Owoade as the next Alaafin.
In a statement issued Tuesday by Prince Sina Afolabi of the Adeitan royal family, the Atiba 9 asserted that the selection violated Oyo’s customs and the rule of law governing the Alaafin’s succession. Afolabi emphasized that the families have legitimate claims to the throne and called for a process that upholds the integrity of Oyo’s royal institution.
The other signatories include Prince Remi Azeez (Tella Okitipapa), Prince Lamola Olanite (Olanite), Prince Agboin Adelabu (Adelabu), Prince Raji Adeniran (Adeniran), Prince Nureni Taiwo (Tella Agbojulogun), Prince Muftau Adejare Adesokan (Adesokan Baba Idode), Prince Adesiyan (Adesiyan), and Prince Bello Rasheed (Abidekun).
While the group clarified that their objections are not personal against Owoade or Lukman Gbadegesin, another contestant previously selected by the Oyomesi, they stressed that both emerged through processes that contradict the traditions of Oyo.
The Atiba 9 also reaffirmed their ongoing court case challenging the selection process and urged Governor Makinde to reconsider his decision. They criticized the governor for reducing the Alaafin stool to an object of ridicule, emphasizing the need for proper rites, such as entering the Ipebi (seclusion), before any proclamation.
“We respect Professor Wande Abimbola, but if fairness is the goal, Ifa consultation should occur in Oyo, at Ojude Ogun, not abroad,” Afolabi stated.
The princes also urged the Oyomesi, led by Basorun Yusuf Akinade, to resolve internal conflicts and ensure unity before resuming the selection process.
“If the process is not corrected, the Alaafin will lose respect among Yoruba Obas. This will tarnish the stool’s integrity,” Afolabi warned.
This marks the second opposition to Owoade’s appointment, as five Oyo Kingmakers had earlier declared the selection invalid, asserting that they did not recommend him to the state government.
The Atiba 9 reiterated their commitment to ensuring a legitimate and traditional process for appointing the next Alaafin of Oyo.
