Prince Abimbola Owoade, the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, has accused the Oyo Mesi kingmakers of bending tradition for financial gain. However, this accusation is ironic given the controversy surrounding his own appointment.
The Oyo indigene and world referred priest who made this known during a telephone interview with Ikanni Ogbon revealed that he consulted the Ifa divination for hundreds of princes and presented the chosen heir for the throne to the Oyomesi.
He expressed curiosity on reasons the kingmakers are willing to breach the age-long custom alleging a possible money inducement.
He added that the kingmakers had at some point had an inner crisis following bribes received from candidates for the highly reverred throne.
Recall that Oyo State Government on Friday named prince owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo designate after a two years vacancy following the death of late Alaafin Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi, Iku Baba Yeye III.
A faction of the Oyomesi has declared Owoade’s appointment as illegal and unlawful, stating that they did not recommend him to the state government ¹. Instead, they claim to have chosen Prince Lukman Adelodun Gbadegesin as the next Alaafin. The kingmakers argue that the governor’s appointment of Owoade is a disregard for tradition and the law.
The selection process for the Alaafin stool has been marred by controversy, with allegations of marginalization and lawsuits filed by disgruntled royal families ². The Oyo State Government’s approval of Owoade’s appointment has only added fuel to the fire.
It’s clear that the traditional institution is facing significant challenges, and the accusation of bending tradition for money is just one aspect of a larger problem. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the parties involved will resolve their differences and move forward.
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