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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has officially taken up residence in the historic Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo town, marking a significant cultural milestone nearly nine months after his installation as the traditional ruler of the ancient kingdom.
The development was confirmed on Tuesday through a statement issued by Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. According to the statement, the monarch’s relocation into the centuries-old palace represents the restoration of a vital symbol of Yoruba heritage and authority.
Oba Owoade received his Staff of Office on Friday, April 5, 2025, from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. His ascension followed the death of the revered Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away in April 2022 at the age of 83. Oba Adeyemi reigned for 52 years, making him the longest-serving Alaafin in history, and his death was widely mourned across Yorubaland. He was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites after the completion of traditional burial ceremonies.
Speaking at the official presentation ceremony earlier this year, Governor Makinde reaffirmed the legitimacy of Oba Owoade’s selection, stating that all due processes were followed before his emergence. He explained that the recommendation of the Oyo Mesi was approved in January 2025, culminating in the formal presentation of the certificate of office to the new monarch.
Meanwhile, Durojaiye revealed that the ancient palace had fallen into severe disrepair before Oba Owoade’s ascension. He described the structure as largely abandoned, with vandalised facilities and deteriorating buildings that required urgent intervention. According to him, the Alaafin immediately prioritised the rehabilitation of the palace as part of efforts to preserve Yoruba history and cultural identity.
He noted that soon after mounting the throne, Oba Owoade initiated restoration works on parts of the palace, ensuring that its architectural integrity and historical significance were not lost. The project, supervised by the Alaafin’s Personal Assistant, Kolade Oladele, focused on reviving the palace’s original design while reinforcing its structural strength.
Durojaiye explained that the restored palace now reflects the enduring elegance of ancient Oyo architecture. He said the bold and resilient structures showcase carefully designed layouts, finely crafted columns, windows, and doors, all bearing traditional artistic patterns associated with classical Yoruba art. Many of the palace buildings feature courtyards, while more prominent sections contain multiple courtyards surrounded by rooms that open inward, a hallmark of traditional palace design.
He further described the palace as a living repository of Yoruba culture, adorned with a rich collection of artworks and craftsmanship. These include carved wooden pillars and door panels, long regarded as symbols of royalty and wealth. Modern sculptural elements such as figures of lions and hunters complement the historic pieces, while walls are decorated with mosaics and painted murals illustrating scenes from daily life, folklore, and mythical imagery.
The Alaafin’s movement into the palace reportedly attracted large crowds, as residents of Oyo town gathered to welcome their monarch. Many expressed pride in his leadership style and commitment to development and unity.
According to Durojaiye, the people of Oyo hold Oba Owoade in high esteem, describing him as a focused and visionary ruler dedicated to peace, progress, and mutual coexistence. He added that the monarch’s efforts extend beyond the kingdom, reflecting a broader commitment to the advancement of the Yoruba race and the preservation of its cultural legacy.
The Alaafin’s return to the ancient palace is widely seen as a powerful symbol of continuity, tradition, and renewed respect for Yoruba heritage in modern times.
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