The traditional kingmakers in Oyo town have announced that they have selected a new Alaafin and are now awaiting the approval of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for the official inauguration. High Chief Yusuf Akinade, the Basorun of Oyo, confirmed this in an exclusive interview.
An unconfirmed document also revealed that the selection of the new Alaafin took place in October 2022. The name of the nominated prince has been forwarded to Governor Seyi Makinde, but he has not yet made an announcement regarding the kingmakers’ choice.
According to the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration, if there are any objections to the selection, a petition can be sent to the government within 21 days. However, no petitions were received against the chosen prince.
It has been almost a year since the selection process was completed and communicated to the government. The Basorun of Oyo stated that they are waiting for a formal announcement from the state government.
The late Alaafin Lamidi Adeyemi, who ruled for 52 years, passed away on April 22, 2022, at the age of 83.
The Basorun emphasized that the selection process was concluded on October 4, 2022, and the state government was immediately informed. Although a lawsuit was filed against the kingmakers, they won the case, and the court affirmed their initial decision. They have been expecting the governor to make an announcement but have not received one yet.
Addressing rumors that the governor intends to force the Oyo Mesi to conduct another selection process, the Basorun stated that they will not allow such a setback and that they have completed a thorough process. They will wait for the governor to announce the candidate they have chosen.
The state’s Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that the government has been informed of the decision made by the Oyo Mesi. However, the governor is taking his time to ensure that no mistakes or issues arise that could lead to legal complications.
The government will follow due process and address the issue through the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General.