Prominent indigenes and stakeholders in Oyo town have appealed to the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, to prioritize resolving escalating land disputes between Oyo and Afijio Local Government Areas. These disputes have recently led to violent confrontations.
This call follows Oba Owoade’s coronation as the 46th Alaafin, presented by Governor Seyi Makinde during a ceremony at Olivet Baptist School, Oyo.
Mr. Mukaila Afonja, the Baba Iyaji of Oyo, highlighted the growing threat to peace posed by the land feud in towns like Ilora and Awe, intensified by the absence of a reigning monarch since the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. He expressed hope that the new Alaafin could mediate and restore harmony among the warring parties.
Former lawmaker Muideen Olagunju urged the Alaafin to take a firm yet diplomatic approach, suggesting a state of emergency on land issues in the Awe and Ilora areas and collaboration with Afijio traditional rulers for lasting peace.
Community elder Adebayo Olawoyin emphasized the importance of religious tolerance and youth engagement. He called for initiatives to create jobs, thereby reducing criminal activity and insecurity in the town.
Lawmakers and former representatives also encouraged the Alaafin to unite communities, advocate for development, and preserve cultural heritage. Olorunpoto Rahaman, representing Oyo East/Oyo West in the state assembly, stressed the need for youth empowerment and completion of abandoned projects.
Former lawmaker Isiaka Tunde pointed out the Alaafin’s role in promoting Yoruba interests and urged him to advocate for cultural revival and local entrepreneurship.
As Alaafin Owoade begins his reign, the expectations from the people of Oyo are high, with hopes that his leadership will foster peace, prosperity, and cultural renaissance in the ancient kingdom.
