Oyo kingmakers, otherwise known as Oyomesi, have shortlisted 65 candidates out of the 198 applicants for the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo.
The Alaafin stool became vacant in April 22, following the demise of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022 at age of 83 after 52 years of reign.
A US-based medical practitioner, Prince Ajibade Adeladan, who is one of the contenders for the stool, told journalists in Ibadan on Sunday that the Baba Iyaji-led Oyomesi had pruned down the number of applicants from 198 applicants to 65, after interviewing them.
Adeladan said those shortlisted were awaiting a final decision to be taken by Governor Seyi Makinde.
The prince said, “Oyo is a historical town and whoever is aspiring to lead the people must be versed in the history and embodiment of culture. Many people have questioned why I decide to leave the US to vie for Alaafin traditional stool. Nigeria is the biggest economy in Africa with many business opportunities. There are many people within and outside Oyo domain that my coming home will be of greater assistance to.
“Nigeria is blessed with rich soil that is good for farming. I have interacted with farmers and ranchers. I have discovered that there is need to improve on our farming system. I see my coming home to vie for the exalted position of Alaafin of Oyo of which I am eminently qualified as an opportunity to impact greatly on our people.
“If rightly harnessed, Oyo town can feed the country. As one of the interviewed candidates with a brighter hope of ascending the throne, I will bring my wealth of experiences to bear in changing the narratives of the town. I will collaborate with the government in attracting foreign and local investors to Oyo town. Many of them have signified interests. What is needed is an enabling environment. I am assuring you that I am going to be an Alaafin with a difference as I will bring my wealth of experience to bear.”
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