New Alaafin to emerge before December
By Samuel Ogunsona
A new Alaafin of Oyo will soon emerge, palace sources have informed Irohinoodua. There are strong indications that the process for the appointment of the next Alaafin will be complete in the next three months. There are 86 candidates already shortlisted for the exalted position of one of the most influential and most historic traditional institutions in the world.
Some of those contesting for the position of Alaafin are Mr Kabir Gbadegesin and the Archbishop of Methodist Church, Ayo Ladigbolu.
The Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Mr Bode Durojaye said the Head of the Agunloye Royal Family, Pa Samuel Adeladan has told the Oyo Mesi that the selection of the new Alaafin should not go beyond December this year.
Durojaye quoting Adeladan said all due processes must be within this year and Adeladan enjoined all the aspirants to close ranks and allow love and unity to be their focal point. He also charged them to eschew recrimination and rally round whoever emerges as the candidate for the royal stool.’
84-year old Bishop Ladigbolu was quoted as saying that he was not desperate to be the next Alaafin. ‘I am a father to all the aspirants and I am not desperate to be the next Alaafin. I will continue to work and partner with whoever emerges for the rapid industrial growth of the town and promotion of the cherished Alaafin institution