The traditional kingmakers in Oyo town are eagerly awaiting the inauguration of the new Alaafin, and they are looking to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for the formal announcement.
High Chief Yusuf Akinade, the Basorun of Oyo, revealed this in an exclusive interview.
There’s an unconfirmed report suggesting that a new Alaafin was selected in October 2022.
The Oyo Mesi, the traditional kingmakers, have already submitted the chosen prince’s name to Governor Seyi Makinde, but the governor has not yet made the official announcement.
According to the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration, which governs the selection of a new Alaafin, there’s a 21-day window for potential petitions to be submitted against the selection.
So far, no such petitions have been received.
It’s been a year since the selection process concluded, and the Basorun of Oyo, Chief Yusuf Akinade, confirmed that they are patiently waiting for the governor’s formal announcement.
The late Alaafin Lamidi Adeyemi, who ruled for nearly 52 years, passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The Basorun explained, “We completed the selection process for the new Alaafin on October 4, 2022, and promptly informed the state government.
While no petitions were filed against our decision, a lawsuit was initiated against us.
We had legal representation, and we won the case.
However, we’re still waiting for the governor to make the official announcement.”
Regarding concerns that the governor might intend to delay or interfere with the process, the Basorun emphasized, “We have no intention of redoing the selection process.
We have followed the law diligently, and the entire Oyo Mesi has endorsed our decision.
We’ll patiently await the governor’s announcement.”
The state’s Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, acknowledged that the government was informed of the Oyo Mesi’s decision but mentioned that the governor is taking his time to ensure a thorough review.
He stated, “The Oyo Mesi has the authority to carry out its duties, but the law allows His Excellency to exercise final authority in this matter to prevent any potential issues or legal disputes, as we experienced in the past with the Eleruwa of Eruwa.”
Regarding the recent court ruling in favor of the Oyo Mesi’s selection process, he added, “We will strictly adhere to the legal process, ensuring full compliance with the law.
The Honourable Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General will provide further clarity on this matter in due course.
