Oyo at 50: Alaafin Absent as State Kicks Off Golden Jubilee Celebrations

Activities marking the 50th anniversary of Oyo State commenced on Monday, but the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, was notably absent from the opening ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan.

The event, which formally flagged off the week-long golden jubilee celebrations, was attended by Governor Seyi Makinde, members of the State Executive Council, former governors and deputy governors, traditional rulers, political leaders, and other dignitaries from within and outside the state.

Despite the presence of several royal fathers, the absence of the Alaafin, regarded as one of the most prominent traditional rulers in Yorubaland, drew attention at the ceremony. No official reason was given for his absence as of the time of the event.

In his address, Governor Makinde described the 50th anniversary as a moment of reflection on the journey of the state since its creation on February 3, 1976, as well as an opportunity to renew commitment to sustainable development and good governance.

The governor highlighted achievements recorded by the state in areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and agribusiness, while stressing the need for unity among stakeholders to move the state forward.

The opening ceremony featured goodwill messages, cultural performances, and the unveiling of programmes scheduled for the anniversary celebrations, including public lectures, medical outreach programmes, sporting activities, and a grand finale later in the week.

Oyo State was created in 1976 during the military administration of General Murtala Mohammed and has since remained a key political, cultural, and economic hub in the South-West region of Nigeria.