“I Told APC Members That the Alaafin Stool Is Not for Sale” – Governor Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared that the revered Alaafin of Oyo stool is not for sale, stressing that political affiliations and external influences played no role in the selection process.

Makinde made this statement on Monday during the presentation of the staff and certificate of recognition to the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, at the Oyo Government House in Ibadan. The governor revealed that he met Oba Owoade for the first time just a day before the official presentation, underscoring his impartiality in the process.

“The Alaafin stool is very important, not just to Oyo Town or Oyo State, but to the entire Yoruba race,” Makinde said. “Under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool would not be for sale. It is not a stool for us to toil with.”

The governor disclosed that some individuals had attempted to push their political allies, particularly members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as candidates for the Alaafin’s position. However, he maintained that his administration prioritized a fair and unbiased process.

Makinde further highlighted his deliberate decision to stay uninvolved in the selection process, stating: “I met Prince Owoade for the first time in my life yesterday. I had never spoken to him in my entire life until yesterday. I did not know his profile or the profile of any of the princes vying for the stool, and it was deliberate, because I did not want my opinion to influence the process.”

The governor also referenced past instances where political affiliations were disregarded in appointing traditional rulers. He recounted his decision during the selection of the Okere of Saki, when political considerations were brought to his attention. “Some people came to me and said, ‘This is our friend.’ They mentioned one person is APC, and I said it does not mean anything to me whether you are PDP or APC. Why should my decision be based on political consideration? So, I approved the selection of the Saki kingmakers.”

The announcement of Oba Owoade’s selection has not been without controversy, as some members of the Oyomesi opposed his appointment, arguing that the process did not align with the 1967 Chieftaincy Declaration. Makinde, however, has reiterated his commitment to preserving the sanctity of traditional institutions and ensuring fairness in their administration.