MURIC rejects Gov. Makinde’s choice of Alaafin, cites subjudice

Stanley Ihedigbo

Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has strongly rejected the choice and appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo by the government of Oyo State.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, made the announcement today, Friday, 10th January 2025.

The group described the appointment as illegal, illegitimate, unlawful, unconstitutional, and the height of impunity.

According to a press statement issued by the Chairman and secretary of the organization in Oyo State, Barrister Abdulwaheed Lawal and Amb. Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade respectively.

They said: “The government of Oyo State has announced the appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, made the announcement today, Friday, 10th January 2025.

“This appointment is illegal, illegitimate, unlawful, and unconstitutional. It is the height of impunity.

“It is surprising that Governor Seyi Makinde could ignore the recent letter written by the Oyo Kingmakers, expressing their displeasure with the Governor’s attempt to restart the selection process despite a pending court case. The new selection is, therefore, subjudice.

“Besides, Makinde has made a caricature of the tradition and custom of the ancient town of Oyo Alaafin with this appointment. It is lawlessness without borders,” they explained.