The ancient city of Oyo came alive on Sunday as history, culture and high politics converged at the palace of the Alaafin, where Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, formally conferred the revered chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu.
From the early hours of the day, the historic town turned into a hive of activity as dignitaries, traditional rulers and political heavyweights streamed into Oyo, underscoring the weight attached to the ancient throne and the symbolism of the occasion. The air was thick with anticipation as drummers, praise singers and palace guards took their positions, setting the tone for a ceremony steeped in centuries-old Yoruba tradition.
Seyi Tinubu, accompanied by his wife, arrived amid tight security and loud cheers from Oyo residents who lined the palace precincts. His entrance signalled the climax of a ceremony that blended royal pageantry with rich cultural displays celebrating Yoruba identity, unity and heritage.
The title Okanlomo of Yorubaland, loosely translated as “the beloved child” or “one dear to the hearts of all Yoruba people,” is traditionally associated with honour, trust and a symbolic responsibility to uphold Yoruba values and cohesion across the land.
The event drew an imposing list of guests from across Nigeria’s political and traditional spectrum. Among those present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio; former Ogun State governor Gbenga Daniel; and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu.
Members of the Federal Executive Council also attended, including Minister of Power Bayo Adelabu, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Olawale Edun, and Statistician-General of the Federation Adeyemo Adeniran. Senator Teslim Folarin was also among the high-profile attendees.
Former Kano State governor and immediate past national chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje joined several traditional rulers from different parts of Nigeria as well as monarchs from the Republic of Benin, reinforcing the pan-Yoruba and cross-border cultural significance of the event.
As the ceremony concluded, Oyo residents and visitors lingered around the palace, soaking in the spectacle that once again affirmed the enduring relevance of Yoruba traditional institutions—where history, culture and contemporary power intersect in full royal splendour.
