The ancient town of Oyo came alive on Sunday as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, conferred the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Dignitaries from across the country converged on the historic town for the ceremony, which drew a large turnout of political leaders, traditional rulers and government officials. Guests arrived early at the palace precincts ahead of the traditional rites that marked the conferment.
Seyi Tinubu arrived at the venue with his wife amid tight security and a cheering crowd of residents and well-wishers. The atmosphere reflected a blend of royal pageantry and cultural celebration, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
The title Okanlomo of Yorubaland, loosely translated as “the beloved child” or “one dear to the hearts of the Yoruba people,” is widely regarded as symbolic of the responsibility to uphold Yoruba values, promote unity and preserve cultural heritage.
Among those in attendance were the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel; and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu. Also present were members of the Federal Executive Council, including the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu; the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Olawale Edun; and the Statistician-General of the Federation, Adeyemo Adeniran.
Senator Teslim Folarin, former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, as well as several traditional rulers from across Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, also attended the event.
The conferment further added colour to the historic town, as residents and visitors thronged the palace area to witness a ceremony that celebrated Yoruba culture, tradition and continuity.
