The Alaafin of Oyo is the traditional ruler of the Oyo kingdom, one of the most senior thrones in Yorubaland. The title means “owner of the palace”. The best-known holder of the modern era, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, reigned from 1970 until his death in April 2022. In January 2025 the Oyo State government appointed Oba Abimbola Owoade as his successor, an appointment that some of the Oyo kingmakers publicly disputed. This guide explains the throne, its history and how the succession unfolded.
What the Alaafin is
The Alaafin sits at the top of the traditional system of Oyo, the heir of the old Oyo Empire. Traditionally he ruled with a council of seven senior chiefs, the Oyo Mesi, led by the Bashorun, who also took part in choosing a successor. Today the Alaafin is a first-class traditional ruler recognised under Nigerian state law, with ceremonial, cultural and mediating roles rather than political power. To see how the throne arose, read our history of the Oyo Empire.
The reign of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III
Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III became Alaafin in 1970 and reigned for more than five decades, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in modern Nigeria. He died in April 2022 at the age of 83. His reign is remembered for the prominence he gave the Oyo throne in national life, and for the attention it drew in the cultural and political spaces of the Yoruba world.
How the new Alaafin was appointed
- The kingmakers’ choice: the Oyo Mesi had earlier recommended Prince Lukuman Gbadegesin, and the process around that recommendation was itself contested, according to reports.
- 10 January 2025: the Oyo State government announced the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade.
- The objection: in a letter dated the same day, five kingmakers, through their lawyer, described the appointment as null and void and said they had not recommended Owoade.
- 13 January 2025: Governor Seyi Makinde presented the certificate and staff of office to Oba Abimbola Owoade at the governor’s office in Ibadan.
These events are summarised from news reporting, including ICIR. We present the positions of each side as reported and take no side. Developments since January 2025, including any court or government decisions, may not be reflected here, so check current reports for the latest position.
Why succession disputes happen
In most Yoruba kingdoms, a ruling house presents candidates, kingmakers deliberate and the state government gives formal approval. When those steps disagree about who has authority, disputes follow. Our explainer on Yoruba chieftaincy titles sets out how the roles fit together, and the Awujale stool story shows a similar process in Ijebu-Ode.
Alaafin and Ooni: how the two thrones relate
The Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo are often named together as senior Yoruba rulers. The Ooni is regarded as the custodian of Ife’s origin traditions, and the Alaafin as the heir of the Oyo kingdom. They have met on shared questions of unity, as in the Joint Council of Yoruba Unity.
Frequently asked questions
What does Alaafin mean?
It means “owner of the palace”.
Who was the Alaafin before the current one?
Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned from 1970 until April 2022.
Where does the Alaafin live?
In the palace at Oyo town, in Oyo State, south-west Nigeria.
