Alaafin Of Oyo Installs Seyi Tinubu As Okanlomo Of Yorubaland

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, on Sunday conferred the traditional title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, during a ceremony held at the monarch’s palace in Oyo State.

The installation formed part of a broader chieftaincy event that attracted political leaders, traditional rulers and other prominent figures from across the country. Seyi Tinubu arrived at the palace accompanied by his wife, Layal, as well as associates and well-wishers who joined him for the occasion.

In the same ceremony, former Zamfara State Governor and serving senator, Abdul’Aziz Yari, was also honoured with a traditional title, reflecting the Alaafin’s continued engagement with national figures beyond the South-West.

Speaking during the event, the Alaafin described the title Okanlomo of Yorubaland as one that symbolises affection, responsibility and trust within the Yoruba cultural space. According to him, the title is traditionally reserved for individuals seen as bridges between generations and custodians of shared values.

Meaning and Cultural Responsibility of the Title

The title Okanlomo, which loosely translates to “the beloved child” or “one dear to the hearts of the people,” is regarded as more than a ceremonial honour. Palace sources explained that it represents a commitment to the preservation of Yoruba culture, unity and moral values.

The Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, said the title embodies ideals such as compassion, justice and service to the community. He added that title holders are expected to advise the throne when necessary and contribute to social development, education and cultural promotion.

My Selection as Alaafin Divine, Not Political – Oba Owoade

Seyi Tinubu, a lawyer and entrepreneur, was born on October 13, 1985. He holds both a Bachelor of Laws and a Master of Laws degree in Corporate and Commercial Law from the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2013.

Meanwhile, Senator Yari, who represents Zamfara West and chairs the Senate Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation, was conferred with the title Obaloyin of Yorubaland. He attended the ceremony with a delegation of northern senators and political figures.

The event drew a wide array of dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, members of the Federal Executive Council and traditional rulers from Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

Also present were the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu; the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Olawale Edun; the Statistician-General of the Federation, Adeyemo Adeniran; Senator Teslim Folarin; and former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.

The ceremony concluded with cultural displays and royal rites, underscoring the enduring role of traditional institutions in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.