Oyo State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has threatened to prosecute kingmakers in Oyo Kingdom (Oyomesi) and others, who collected bribe or gratification in the selection process of the new Alaafin of Oyo.

He said any chief or anyone found guilty of bribe-taking during the selection process would face prosecution.

It would be recalled that five kingmakers (Oyomesi) declared the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade as 46th and new Alaafin of Oyo by the governor as null and void because they did not recommend such name to the state government for ratification.

They insisted that the only person they recommended as the next Alaafin was Prince Luqman Gbadegesin.

However, the governor, while presenting staff of office and certificate to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, at the Government House in Ibadan, on Monday, emphasised on transparency and accountability in the selection process of the new monarch.

The governor described Oba Owoade as a leader poised to upholding the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom, noting that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but a custodian of rich history and tradition.

“I believe that Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of the Oyo kingdom,” Makinde stated.

In his response, Oba Owoade expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo and promised to prioritise the development of the kingdom and the welfare of the residents.

Oba Owoade was accompanied by a delegation of his subjects from Oyo town, marking a significant moment in the state’s traditional leadership history.

He, however, pledged to usher in a new era of leadership, with a focus on cultural preservation, youth development, and economic growth in the Oyo Kingdom.

Meanwhile, when contacted, the Bashorun of Oyo and head of Oyomesi, High Chief Yusuf Akinade, said their lawyer should be contacted for reaction, saying he has nothing to say for now since the case is currently in court.

“I don’t know anything about it, I am not around, whatever you want to know, you can contact our lawyer because the case is currently in court, so, I can’t say anything outside the court. I am the Bashorun, I am not aspiring to become the Alaafin,” the High Chief stated.