The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, is set to confer prominent chieftaincy titles on Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari at a ceremonial installation scheduled to hold on Saturday, December 21, 2025.
Details of the event emerged through a flyer circulating on social media and obtained on Wednesday, indicating that Seyi Tinubu will be installed as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland, while the former governor of Zamfara State and current senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’Aziz Yari, will receive the title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland.
The flyer, jointly issued by the Alaafin of Oyo and his wife, Ayaba Abiwumi Owoade, formally invited members of the public, traditional rulers, political leaders and other dignitaries to witness what is expected to be a high-profile cultural ceremony at the ancient Oyo palace.
The title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland is regarded as one of the most revered honorary chieftaincy titles within Yoruba traditional institutions. It is commonly interpreted to mean “one who is cherished by all” or “a beloved son of the Yoruba race.” Historically, the title symbolises deep affection, recognition and acceptance by the Yoruba people, and it is often bestowed on individuals perceived to have demonstrated commitment to the progress, unity and welfare of the Yoruba nation.
Similarly, the title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland, to be conferred on Senator Yari, is considered a prestigious honour, signifying leadership, influence and service that transcends ethnic and regional boundaries. The conferment of both titles on the same day underscores the Alaafin’s role as a foremost custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, as well as a bridge between cultural heritage and contemporary national life.
Confirming the development in a telephone interview on Wednesday, the Alaafin’s media aide, Bode Durojaiye, affirmed that preparations for the ceremony were in top gear and that the installation would proceed as scheduled.
“Yes, it is correct. The Alaafin of Oyo will install Seyi Tinubu as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland and Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari as the Obaloyin of Yorubaland,” Durojaiye said.
He added that an official statement providing further details on the programme of events and the significance of the honours would be released to the media in due course.
The planned installation has already generated widespread reactions across political, cultural and social circles, given the profiles of the recipients and the symbolic weight of the titles involved. As the son of the sitting President of Nigeria, Seyi Tinubu’s conferment has drawn particular attention, with observers interpreting it as recognition of his growing visibility in social engagement, youth advocacy and philanthropic initiatives, especially within the South-West and beyond.
In recent years, Seyi Tinubu has been involved in several humanitarian and empowerment activities, including food outreach programmes, youth engagement initiatives and social interventions targeted at vulnerable groups across different parts of the country. Supporters argue that these efforts align with the traditional values of service and communal responsibility that Yoruba chieftaincy titles are meant to honour.
Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari, on his part, is a well-known political figure with national reach, having served two terms as governor of Zamfara State before his election to the Senate. His selection for a Yoruba chieftaincy title reflects a long-standing tradition of recognising non-Yoruba Nigerians who have built strong relationships with Yoruba leaders or contributed to national cohesion.
Political analysts note that the conferment of such titles often carries both cultural and symbolic political significance, especially at a time when traditional institutions are increasingly seen as platforms for promoting unity, dialogue and social stability in a diverse country like Nigeria.
The Alaafin of Oyo occupies a unique position among Yoruba monarchs, historically regarded as the paramount ruler of the old Oyo Empire and a custodian of centuries-old traditions. Although the modern Nigerian state has redefined the political powers of traditional rulers, the cultural influence of the Alaafin remains profound, with chieftaincy titles from the Oyo palace commanding respect across Yorubaland and beyond.
Observers also point out that the public nature of the invitation suggests that the palace intends the ceremony to be a celebration of culture and heritage, rather than a closed or exclusive event. The presence of dignitaries from different parts of the country is expected to further highlight the unifying role of traditional institutions in contemporary Nigeria.
While supporters have welcomed the announcement as a fitting recognition of service and goodwill, some critics have urged caution, warning against the politicisation of traditional titles. They argue that chieftaincy honours should be guided strictly by cultural values and community consensus, rather than perceived political affiliations.
However, palace sources maintain that the Alaafin’s decisions are rooted in tradition, consultation and long-standing criteria that emphasise character, contribution and public standing.
As anticipation builds ahead of Saturday’s ceremony, security arrangements are also expected to be heightened, given the likely presence of high-ranking political office holders, traditional rulers, business leaders and members of the diplomatic community.
The installation ceremony is expected to feature traditional rites, cultural displays and royal blessings, reflecting the deep spiritual and historical foundations of Yoruba kingship. It will also serve as a reminder of the enduring relevance of indigenous institutions in recognising leadership and fostering unity in a rapidly changing society.
With official details expected to be released by the palace in the coming days, all eyes will be on Oyo town this weekend as history, tradition and contemporary public life intersect in the installation of new title holders under one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional thrones.
