Alaafin of Oyo throne: 48 individuals in contest ahead of the selection

Following the death of His Majesty Alaiyeluwa Oba Dr. Lamidi Olayiwola Atanda Adeyemi III the Alaafin of Oyo, the number of individuals that have indicated an interest in the seat has risen from 20 to 48.

The 43rd Alaafin of Oyo passed away on April 22 at the age of 83, making it his 52nd year of reign.

The late Alaafin during his time contested for the stool of the Alaafin alongside 10 other people. The contest started in 1968 and ended in 1970.

For three consecutive times, the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi was declared the winner by the Oyomesi, but the government in power stalled his coronation until 1971.

Following his demise, the seat has been declared vacant and 48 individuals have already indicated interest and submitted their names ahead of the selection of the 44th Alaafin of Oyo.

The 48 members are all members of the Agunloye ruling family.

The names according to the Mogaji of Agunloye family, Prince Samuel Ademola Adeladan would be collected and sent to the head of the Princes Baba Iyaji who would then forward them through the prime minister Basorun to the Oyomesi, the kingmakers.

Some of the criteria considered in the selection process include the education of the applicant, his career, character, and integrity.

According to Prince Ademola, whosoever is to succeed as the Alaafin must be one who can promote peace among the people of Oyo, as well as attract and drive development in the area.

Reacting to the process so far, the Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde declared that the Alaafin of Oyo chieftaincy declaration would be duly observed in naming a new Alaafin of Oyo.

He made this known at the state burial organized for the Late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

In addition, the governor described the late Alaafin as an irreplaceable leader and a storehouse of Yoruba history and culture.

According to the governor, he remained on good terms with the traditional father up to his passing away.