Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State revealed that some individuals attempted to influence the selection process of the new Alaafin of Oyo, but he refused to listen to them.
The governor made this statement during the coronation of Oba Abdulakeem Abimbola Owoade I as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, held at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo.
Makinde emphasized that the oracle didn’t select the candidates proposed by these individuals, instead, the person chosen by Ifa and the people of Oyo is the one being coronated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring due process and laid-down rules are followed in governing the state, maintaining a record of non-interference in traditional institutions.
The governor described Owoade’s ascension as a testament to his administration’s credibility, upholding due process and transparency.
Makinde recounted an instance where he rejected an attempt to influence the selection process, saying, “Some people came to meet me to influence the selection process of the new Alaafin, but the oracle didn’t really pick their candidates.”
He also revealed that an investigation was conducted after the initial selection process was marred by bribery, leading him to question whether the Alaafin’s stool was for sale, and ultimately deciding it was not.
Today, Makinde believes the people of Oyo State can be proud of their new Kabiyesi, representing the interests of both the people and their ancestors.