Alaafin-Elect Unveils Majestic Official Title, See How He Wants to Be Addressed.

 On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade, unveiled his official royal title. In a statement from the palace, it was announced that he shall be formally addressed as "His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo." 

The statement emphasized the importance of using the Roman numeral "I" (one) after "Owoade," clarifying that it should not be confused with the Arabic numeral "1." The public and media are urged to adhere strictly to this specified format without adding any prefixes or suffixes. 

Prince Owoade's ascension follows the approval of his appointment by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 10, 2025, after thorough consultations and divinations by the Oyomesi, the kingmakers of Oyo Kingdom. 

Born in 1978 into the Owoade-Agunloye royal family of Oyo, Prince Owoade has a rich educational and professional background. He holds diplomas in Mechanical Engineering from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and The Polytechnic, Ibadan. Furthering his education in the United Kingdom, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sunderland in 2008 and a Master of Science in the same field from Northumbria University in 2012. Professionally, he has worked as a Planning Engineer in the UK and is currently a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro in Canada. 

The announcement of his official title is part of the preparations leading up to his formal installation, which is expected to be a grand event attended by dignitaries, traditional leaders, and well-wishers from across the country.