A coalition of nine royal families in Oyo, known as the Atiba 9, has expressed strong opposition to the recent appointment of Abimbola Owoade as the Alaafin of Oyo. They argue that this selection disregards longstanding customs and traditions.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s presentation of the staff of office to Owoade has intensified the controversy. The Atiba 9 allege that the decision was influenced by a proclamation from U.S.-based Awise Agbaye, Professor Wande Abimbola, who asserted that Ifa, the Yoruba oracle, selected Owoade for the throne.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Prince Sina Afolabi of the Adeitan royal family, speaking for the Atiba 9, emphasized their legitimate claims to the throne and the necessity of adhering to due process to maintain the integrity of Oyo’s royal institution. The other princes 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).
Afolabi clarified that their objection is not personal against Owoade or Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, another contestant previously chosen by the Oyomesi. Instead, they contend that the processes leading to both selections were inconsistent with the ancient town’s traditions.
The Atiba 9 have initiated legal action challenging the procedures that led to the emergence of both Owoade and Gbadegesin as contenders for the throne. They remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that due process is observed to preserve the sanctity of the Alaafin’s stool.
Afolabi criticized Governor Makinde’s approach, stating, “What the governor did was totally against the highly revered Alaafin stool. His action has reduced the throne to an object of ridicule.” He urged adherence to traditional protocols, referencing the installation of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, as an exemplar of due process.
The Atiba 9 fear that deviating from established customs could diminish the prestige of the Alaafin’s position, potentially leading to future ridicule. They advocate for a selection process rooted in tradition to uphold the honor and respect associated with the throne.
As the situation unfolds, the Oyo community and stakeholders in Yoruba traditional institutions are closely monitoring developments, hoping for a resolution that honors both tradition and the rule of law.
