The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has publicly expressed his profound gratitude to the array of dignitaries who graced the recent chieftaincy installation of Barrister Seyi Tinubu and Senator Abubakar Yari in Oyo Kingdom. The monarch described the event as a historic milestone, marked by an unprecedented show of solidarity from Nigeria's political and traditional elite.
An Unprecedented Gathering of Dignitaries
In a statement released by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the revered traditional ruler detailed the massive scale of the attendance. The ceremony saw a remarkable logistical footprint, with 65 private aircraft landing at Ibadan International Airport and 25 helicopters touching down directly in Oyo town. The guest list was a who's who of Nigerian leadership, including no fewer than 145 members of the House of Representatives, 45 Senators, top federal ministers, state governors, captains of industry, and fellow prominent traditional rulers.
Oba Owoade stated that the presence of these eminent personalities "illuminated the ceremony with grace, wisdom and solidarity", elevating it to a landmark occasion in the annals of the Oyo Kingdom. "The attendance of these distinguished personalities was a profound honour to the throne and the people of Oyo," the Alaafin emphasized.
Ceremony Highlights and Messages for Titleholders
The event, held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, formally installed Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, as the Òkanlòmo of Yorubaland, while his wife was installed as the Yeye Òkanlòmo. Simultaneously, former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abubakar Yari, was conferred with the title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland.
Prominent figures offered counsel to the new titleholders. Former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, urged Seyi Tinubu to use the honour as a platform for fostering national unity, praising him as a known bridge-builder. Similarly, Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, stated that the recognition reflected inherent leadership potential and called on them to view their new roles as a form of public service.
A Powerful Affirmation of Traditional Institutions
Speaking on behalf of the royal family and the entire Oyo Kingdom, the Alaafin expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming show of unity and support. He interpreted the massive turnout as a powerful affirmation of the enduring relevance and respect for Nigeria's traditional institutions in contemporary society.
"Your presence transformed a significant occasion into a truly historic and memorable event," Oba Owoade stated. He further offered prayers for the continued health, prosperity, and divine guidance of all the attendees, noting that their support left the kingdom "inspired and deeply appreciative."
High-profile guests at the event included:
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio
- Minister of Finance Wale Edun
- Former Kano Governor Abdullahi Ganduje
- Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu
- Minister of Power Bayo Adelabu
- Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu
- Several other senators and federal ministers
Following the ceremony, Seyi Tinubu took to social media to express his gratitude, posting on Instagram: "My wife and I extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who celebrated with us. We were profoundly honoured by your presence, prayers, and goodwill messages." The event has undoubtedly cemented its place as a significant socio-political gathering in recent times.
