Governor Makinde Upholds Integrity in Alaafin Selection Process

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reiterated his commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the selection of the Alaafin of Oyo. Speaking on Monday, Makinde revealed that he had firmly informed all interested parties that the revered stool of the Alaafin was not for sale.

The governor noted that some individuals attempted to influence the process by involving political allies, but he maintained that such considerations would have no bearing on the selection.

Makinde addressed concerns raised by some members of the Oyomesi, who argued that the selection should strictly follow the 1967 Chieftaincy Declaration without divination or consultation. Despite these debates, the governor announced the appointment of Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin on January 10.

Reflecting on the process, Makinde stated: “The Alaafin stool is very important, not just to Oyo Town or Oyo State, but to the entire Yoruba race. Under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool would not be for sale. It is not a stool for us to toil with.”

He further disclosed that his first interaction with Oba Owoade occurred just a day before the formal announcement. “I met Prince Owoade for the first time in my life yesterday. I had never spoken to him before, and it was deliberate because I did not want my opinion to influence the process,” the governor said.

Makinde highlighted his administration’s impartiality in traditional matters, citing previous instances where political affiliations were disregarded in the selection of traditional rulers. “When it was time to approve the selection of Okere, some people came to me and said, ‘This is our friend.’ They mentioned political affiliations, and I made it clear that such considerations meant nothing to me. My decisions are not based on politics but on due process and fairness,” he explained.