THE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, was absent from the opening ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of Oyo State held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan on Monday, January 26.
The ceremony featured a welcome address by Governor Seyi Makinde and a goodwill message from the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adebo Edward Ogundoyin.
The state was created on February 3, 1976, by the military government of the late Gen. Murtala Mohammed, with Brig-Gen. David Jemibewon appointed as its first military governor.
Also in attendance were the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and other monarchs, while the seat reserved for the Alaafin was conspicously vacant.
Alaafin’s absence has fueled the rumoured conflict between the two most senior traditional rulers, following a recent encounter between them at this year’s interfaith gathering held at the Grand Space, near the Assembly complex.
A viral video later emerged showing the Olubadan walking toward his seat beside the Alaafin, who had arrived earlier and was already seated, ignoring the Allafin, who had extended his hand for a handshake.
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