We’ll Deal with Oyo Kingmakers, Makinde Fumes as He Presents Staff of Office to Alaafin

By Adeola Omotola Last updated Jan 13, 2025

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has threatened to deal with the Oyo kingmakers over allegation that they wanted to sell or toy with the stool of Alaafin of Oyo. The seat was vacant in 2022 following the demise of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

Since that time, there have been issues, nomination and rejection of candidates who are princes from the royal families. The kingmakers had earlier nominated one Lukman Gbadegesin, but the governor rejected his nomination citing corruption and that the kingmakers led by powerful Bashorun had taken bribe.

While giving the staff of office and certificate to the approved prince, Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the Oyo State Governor said, “The Alaafin stool is very important, not just to Oyo State but to the entire Yoruba race. So, under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool is not for sale. It is not a stool for us to toy with.”

“I met the prince for the first time in my life yesterday. I had never met him before. I did not know his profile or the profile of any of the princes vying for the stool. It was deliberate because I didn’t want to add my own opinion or be in any way influenced.”

Makinde added, “Some people said maybe it was political consideration. No. Politics and electioneering are games, but once you’ve been elected, governance is serious business. So, we will not play politics with governance.

“Those who are still hellbent on destabilising our traditional institutions in Oyo should beware — the government will not relent. We will prosecute them. The money they collected will not go unnoticed. Except the Kabiyesi forgive them, I will not forgive them either.”

He further announced, “The coronation proper will take place in four weeks, but today I will hand over the certificate and staff of office.”