Alaafin Owoade Mocks Oyo Government’s Imposed Crown, Lauds Loyal Chiefs Who Reject What He Called ‘Ade Pali’
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has mocked the recent elevation of 14 high chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to crown-wearing Obas by the Oyo State Government, describing the crowns presented as “Ade Pali” meaning a crown made of carton.
The monarch, while speaking at an event, also expressed appreciation to the Agbaakin of Oyo land and other chiefs who refused to accept the crowns, praising their steadfast loyalty to the Alaafin stool and the traditions of the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
Recall that Governor Seyi Makinde had on Friday, February 13, elevated the chiefs, including the Alago-oja, and presented them with instruments of office at a ceremony held at Oliveth Baptist High School, Oyo. The event attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, senior government officials, and cultural stakeholders from across the state.
Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Barrister Adebayo Lawal said the elevation was part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and promote grassroots development. He congratulated the newly crowned monarchs and urged them to uphold peace, fairness, and inclusiveness in their reigns while supporting government programmes.
However, the Alaafin of Oyo, maintained that the authority of his stool over chieftaincy matters in Oyo town must be respected.
He reiterated his opposition to the state government’s action, recalling that he had approached the Supreme Court seeking an order to restrain the government from crowning high chiefs under his domain.
The development has further intensified debates in Oyo over the balance of power between the state government and the traditional institution, highlighting ongoing concerns about preserving the historical authority of the Alaafin.
Alaafin Owoade Mocks Oyo Government’s Imposed Crown, Lauds Loyal Chiefs Who Reject What He Called ‘Ade Pali’
Byadmin
Feb 22, 2026