Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, Moves Into Ancient Palace After Months of Restoration

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, on Tuesday officially moved into the ancient palace in Oyo town, marking a historic moment nine months after his installation as the traditional ruler of the Oyo Kingdom.

The development was confirmed by the palace’s media office in a statement issued by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye. According to the statement, the monarch relocated to the centuries-old palace situated in the Oke Afin area of Oyo after months of rehabilitation and reconstruction work.

Oba Owoade was formally presented with his staff of office on April 5, 2025, by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, following the passing of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, whose reign spanned over five decades.

Durojaiye explained that the ancient palace had been in a severely dilapidated state before the monarch’s intervention. The structures were described as largely abandoned, vandalised, and in urgent need of restoration. Shortly after ascending the throne of his forefathers, Oba Owoade embarked on what was described as a demanding but necessary mission to revive the historic seat of the Oyo monarchy.

The rehabilitation effort, supervised by the Alaafin’s Personal Assistant, Kolade Oladele, focused on preserving the cultural and architectural heritage of the Yoruba people while restoring the palace to functional use. According to the palace media office, the renewed structures now reflect the enduring strength and elegance of ancient Oyo craftsmanship.

Durojaiye noted that the palace now showcases well-organised layouts, finely designed columns, windows, and doors, all adorned with artistic patterns that echo the creativity and identity of old Oyo art. He added that the restoration has brought back the palace’s timeless beauty, allowing it to once again stand as a symbol of tradition, resilience, and cultural pride.

The Alaafin’s move into the ancient palace is being widely viewed as more than a change of residence. It represents a reaffirmation of cultural continuity and respect for Yoruba heritage, reinforcing the spiritual and historical significance of the Oyo throne within the community and beyond.

With the monarch now fully settled in the ancient seat of power, many see the moment as the beginning of a renewed chapter for the Oyo Kingdom, rooted firmly in tradition while looking toward the future.