Oyo Monarch Clarifies Why Pastor Adeboye was Allowed to Sit on Royal Chair

The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon in Oyo State, Oba Francis Alao, has addressed the viral online image of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye, seated on a royal chair in his palace. In a statement released on Monday, Oba Alao explained that the gesture was an act of honor and not an attempt to desecrate the sacred throne.

The photograph of Mr. Adeboye sitting on the traditional ruler’s chair sparked various reactions online, prompting the monarch to provide clarity. Oba Alao stated that during an evangelism program held at Olugbon High School, he offered one of the ceremonial royal chairs, exclusively reserved for dignitaries, to Pastor Adeboye.

The monarch emphasized that Adeboye’s chopper landed in an open space within the palace, where he received the pastor in his living room before proceeding to the event venue as a show of support for the program.

To dispel misconceptions, Oba Alao clarified that the royal chair depicted in the viral picture is distinct from the one reserved solely for the king. He highlighted the spiritual and historical significance attached to the king’s chair, asserting that it cannot be shared with anyone.

“As a mark of honor, I offered one of the ceremonial royal chairs, reserved for top dignitaries, to Pastor Adeboye for use during the program. The throne of the ancient town of Orile-Igbon remains sacrosanct,” the monarch stated, seeking understanding from those expressing concern over the issue.

He reiterated that the traditional royal chair is exclusively for the king, while ceremonial chairs are designated for very important persons, emphasizing the sanctity of the Orile-Igbon throne.