Alaafin of Oyo Crowns Seyi Tinubu as Okanlomo of Yorubaland in Grand Traditional Ceremony

On Sunday, 21 December 2025, the ancient city of Oyo in southwestern Nigeria became the setting for a striking blend of tradition, royalty, and contemporary political influence as Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was formally installed as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland by His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I. The conferment of this esteemed Yoruba title drew widespread attention, signaling both cultural celebration and national conversation. 

Oyo town was buzzing with anticipation early in the day, with thousands of residents, dignitaries, and visitors converging on the historic palace grounds of the Alaafin to witness the event. Traditional drummers, cultural troupes, and groups in richly embroidered Yoruba attire filled the streets, signaling the importance of the occasion to the local community and beyond. 

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade — the 46th Alaafin, whose ascension itself was a celebrated royal milestone earlier in the year — presided over the ceremonies with the grandeur befitting centuries of Yoruba monarchal tradition. In front of his palace, which dates back to Oyo’s imperial roots, he received Seyi Tinubu and other distinguished guests. 

As part of the traditional rites, Seyi Tinubu arrived at the palace amid chants and applause, marking his entry into the lineage of respected sons of the Yoruba nation. Video clips and social media footage from the venue show Seyi engaged in earnest conversation with the Alaafin amid the singing of traditional praises and the rhythmic beat of talking drums. 

The title “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” — loosely translated from the Yoruba language as “the beloved child of the land” — is a deeply symbolic honorific traditionally bestowed on individuals regarded as close to the Yoruba heart and heritage. It is meant to reflect affection, cultural unity, and respect for the traditions and values of the Yoruba people. 

Alongside Seyi Tinubu’s installation, the Alaafin also conferred another prestigious title on Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari, a former governor and current senator, who was named Obaloyin of Yorubaland during the same ceremony. Both titles were conferred with traditional rites and cultural pomp that blended Yoruba customs with modern pageantry. 

The atmosphere, captured in videos that emerged throughout the afternoon, showed large crowds cheering, elders offering blessings, and traditional chiefs participating in the ceremonial rites. These included prayers, pouring of libations, and the presentation of symbolic regalia as expressions of Yoruba identity and continuity.