Dalena Reporters l December 22, 2025
A high-profile cultural and political gathering unfolded on Sunday in Oyo Town as Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was formally installed as the Òkanlòmo of Yorubaland — a prestigious Yoruba traditional title symbolising a “beloved child” of the people and a custodian of cultural values and unity. The ceremony took place at the Alaafin of Oyo’s Palace under the authority of Oba Akeem Owoade I, attracting a galaxy of top Nigerian leaders and dignitaries.
Among the distinguished guests were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, and former Kano State governor and national political figure Abdullahi Ganduje underlining the event’s political and cultural significance. The colourful rites were attended by ministers, lawmakers, royal fathers, and traditional rulers from across Nigeria and neighbouring Republic of Benin, melding the spheres of politics, heritage and national identity.
The Òkanlòmo title, conferred by the Alaafin, carries deep cultural resonance denoting someone dear to the hearts of the Yoruba people and entrusted with promoting Yoruba values, unity, social development and cultural heritage. In addition to Seyi Tinubu, Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari, former governor of Zamfara State, was installed as the Obaloyin of Yorubaland, a title traditionally associated with love, justice and guardianship within the cultural order.
Speaking on the sidelines, attendees described the occasion as both a celebration of tradition and a symbolic affirmation of service and leadership. Seyi Tinubu’s supporters and cultural advocates highlighted his engagement in community development, youth initiatives and philanthropy as fitting credentials for the honour bestowed upon him.
Observers noted that the blend of political heavyweights and royal authority from Alaafin Oba Owoade, to Akpabio, Edun and Ganduje underscores the enduring interplay between Nigeria’s traditional institutions and contemporary governance, especially at a time when national unity, cultural pride and leadership roles among the younger generation are in sharper focus.
Published by Dalena Reporters.