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KOLA ADEYEMI PAYS TRIBUTE TO ALAAFIN OWOADE AS OYO KING MARKS 51 YEARS, 20 YEARS IN MARRIAGE AND ONE YEAR ON THRONE
By Prince Benson Davies
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Anti-corruption Awareness Organization, Nigeria, ACAON, Alhaji Prince Kola Kadewolu Adeyemi, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, on the occasion of his 51st birthday, 20th wedding anniversary, and one year on the throne of his forefathers.
In a goodwill message issued on behalf of ACAON, Prince Adeyemi, who is also a prince of the Alowolodu ruling house of Oyo, described the Alaafin’s reign as a divine arrangement and a blessing to the Oyo Empire and Yorubaland at large.
He noted that 51 years ago, the birth of Oba Owoade marked the beginning of a life of purpose. According to him, few would have imagined that the child born on that day would grow to occupy the revered seat of the Alaafin and provide leadership for millions of Yoruba people. He prayed that God would continue to grant Kabiyesi wisdom, strength and good health to lead with fairness and vision.
Prince Adeyemi further reflected on the Alaafin’s 20 years in marriage, saying the union has been sustained by grace despite challenges. He commended the royal couple for exemplifying commitment and stability, and prayed that God would continue to keep peace and harmony in the palace.
On the first anniversary of the Alaafin’s ascension to the throne, the ACAON BOT Chairman said the milestone represents a new chapter for Oyo. He urged Kabiyesi to continue to carry all stakeholders along in the interest of unity, development and cultural preservation. He expressed confidence that the Alaafin’s leadership would bring progress to Oyo and strengthen the bond among Yoruba kingdoms.
He prayed that the reign of Iku Baba Yeye would be marked by peace, prosperity and righteousness. “May your root be deep in wisdom, may your life blossom in righteousness, and may your reign shine brighter with each passing day,” he said. He also offered prayers for divine protection, guidance and favour for the Alaafin, comparing his leadership to the wisdom of Daniel, the favour of Samuel, and the greatness of David.
Prince Adeyemi concluded by praying that the Alaafin’s laughter would continue to bring joy to homes in Oyo, that his hands would never lack, and that his feet would walk in the path of light. He said ACAON remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, integrity and good governance in line with the values that the throne represents.
The ACAON BOT Chairman said he hopes the triple celebration will usher in greater peace and an enabling environment for the people of Oyo and Yorubaland to thrive under the Alaafin’s leadership.
