From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Nine royal families from Oyo, collectively known as the Atiba 9, have declared their rejection of Prince Akeem Owoade’s appointment as the Alaafin of Oyo, citing irregularities in the selection process.
This announcement follows the presentation of the staff of office to Prince Owoade by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. The Atiba 9 argue that the process violated Oyo’s customs and traditions and alleged it was influenced by a proclamation from Professor Wande Abimbola, a U.S.-based Ifa priest, claiming Ifa had selected Owoade as the next Alaafin.
In a statement issued by Prince Sina Afolabi on behalf of the Atiba 9, the group emphasized that their objections are not personal but are rooted in their commitment to preserving the sanctity of the Alaafin stool. The signatories, representing prominent royal families, insisted that due process was not followed and expressed disappointment in Governor Makinde’s actions.
The Atiba 9 stressed that the selection process ignored Oyo’s cultural and traditional protocols. According to Prince Afolabi, the appointment did not involve the Ipebi rites, a critical tradition in the coronation of the Alaafin. “What the governor has done undermines the prestige of the Alaafin stool, reducing it to an object of ridicule,” he stated.
He cited the example of the Ooni of Ife, whose ascension followed strict adherence to Ife customs, emphasizing that the Alaafin deserves no less respect.
The Atiba 9 also highlighted internal disagreements within the Oyomesi, the council of kingmakers in Oyo, as a significant factor in the flawed selection process. They urged the Oyomesi, led by Basorun High Chief Yusuf Akinade, to resolve their disputes and oversee a proper selection process.
The group warned that the current arrangement might undermine the Alaafin’s authority among other Yoruba monarchs. “An improperly appointed Alaafin will struggle to command respect from other traditional rulers, which could diminish the stool’s significance,” Afolabi noted.
The Atiba 9 have vowed to pursue legal action to challenge the process and demand that due process be followed. They urged Governor Makinde to correct the situation and ensure the next Alaafin is selected in line with established customs, traditions, and the rule of law.
“We respect the individuals involved, including Professor Wande Abimbola, but fairness and tradition must prevail. The Alaafin stool is too revered to be subjected to controversy,” the statement concluded.