Makinde Vows to Prosecute Those Who Took Bribes for Alaafin Selection
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has promised to prosecute those involved in receiving bribes during the selection process for the Alaafin of Oyo, following allegations of corruption.
Makinde made the statement on Monday during the presentation of the staff of office to Abimbola Owoade, the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, at the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan.
Owoade was officially announced as the Alaafin-designate by Makinde on Friday, despite opposition from a faction of the Oyomesi, the kingmakers, who preferred Lukman Gbadegesin for the role.
Earlier in July 2024, two members of the Oyomesi reported to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that Gbadegesin had offered N15 million each to the five kingmakers during the selection process.
During the presentation of office instruments to Owoade, Governor Makinde emphasized that under his leadership, the Alaafin throne would not be for sale.
“The government will not back down on this matter. We will prosecute those who took the money, and they will face legal consequences,” Makinde declared. “However, if they go to Kabiyesi and seek his forgiveness, and if he accepts, I will also consider forgiving them.”
The governor clarified that his decision to appoint Owoade was not influenced by political motives. He explained that he had not met with Owoade or any of the other candidates, which allowed him to make an impartial choice.
“Some have speculated that politics played a role in this decision, but I assure you, that was not the case,” he said. “Politics is a game, but governance is serious. When you are elected, you make decisions that affect millions of lives. I made the right choice, regardless of political pressure.”
Makinde recalled the challenges his administration faced with the traditional institution in Ibadanland in 2019, noting that they had since been resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.
“When the Alaafin throne became vacant in 2022, some suggested that I should approve the appointment of the Alaafin or risk losing votes in the next election. I told them I would do what was right, and the people of Oyo overwhelmingly voted for me,” he said. “Oyo will continue to support me.”
Makinde confirmed that the coronation of the new Alaafin would take place in four weeks, promising to speak further on the matter then.
