In a significant cultural event, the Alaafin of Oyo is set to honour two prominent Nigerians with prestigious Yoruba chieftaincy titles. The ceremony will bridge political and regional lines, highlighting the enduring role of traditional institutions.
Prestigious Titles for Political Figures
His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade Abimbola I, will confer high-ranking titles on former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari and Barrister Seyi Tinubu. The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Alaafin's Palace in Oyo town, Oyo State, commencing at 10:00 AM.
Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar, who represents Zamfara West, will be crowned as the Obaloyin of Yorubaland. Barrister Seyi Tinubu will receive the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland. The planning committee chairman, Nigeria’s Youth Development Minister Hon. Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, confirmed these details.
Meaning and Historical Significance of the Titles
Hon. Ayodele Olawande explained the deep meaning behind the honours. The title Obaloyin of Yorubaland is a decorated military command chieftaincy, symbolizing the guardian of the realm. It belongs to the Eso Class, which is second only to the Oyo Mesi, the Supreme Council of Kingmakers in the historic Oyo Empire.
The title Okanlomo of Yorubaland means a unique and special child who is dear to everyone. The minister stressed that both titles were awarded in recognition of the recipients' ability and commitment to building cultural bridges within Nigeria's diverse society.
This tradition of recognizing excellence dates back to the Oyo Empire, founded in the 1300s by Prince Oranmiyan, a descendant of Oduduwa. The empire continues to honour individuals who foster unity and cultural understanding.
Senator Yari's Royal Heritage
The honour holds particular resonance for Senator Abdulaziz Yari, given his own deep-rooted traditional lineage. He is the grandson of the 6th Ƙayayen Mafara Emirate in Zamfara State, Ƙayaye Ali Mayaƙi.
His father was the 11th Ƙayayen Mafara, Alh. Abubakar Yari, who ruled from 2002 to 2008. The revered title of Ƙayaye in the Mafara Emirate, established over 800 years ago by the Zamfarawa clan, is reserved for the Malam Gurma lineage, who commanded the Emirate's military during its founding.
This coronation represents a powerful fusion of Nigeria's rich cultural heritages, linking the historical legacies of the Yoruba Oyo Empire and the Hausa-Fulani Mafara Emirate through contemporary leadership.
The event is expected to draw dignitaries from across the nation, underscoring the role of traditional stools in promoting national integration and honouring service beyond ethnic and geographical boundaries.
