In a significant cultural event that drew Nigeria's political elite to Oyo State, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been honored with a prestigious traditional title.
A Royal Ceremony in the Ancient City
On Saturday, December 21, 2025, the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Owoade, performed the installation ceremony. He conferred the chieftaincy title of "Okanlomo of Yorubaland" upon Seyi Tinubu. The title, deeply rooted in Yoruba language and sentiment, translates to "the beloved child" or "the one dear to the hearts of all Yoruba people."
The event, which was captured in videos that have since emerged online, was not solely focused on the President's son. The Alaafin also honored a prominent northern politician, former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdulaziz Yari. Senator Yari was installed with the title of "Obaloyin of Yorubaland."
High-Profile Attendance Highlights Political Significance
The ceremony attracted a formidable gathering of the nation's leaders, underscoring the event's political and cultural weight. Among the dignitaries in attendance were:
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio
- Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu
- Senate Majority Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele
The presence of these top lawmakers and other Nigerian dignitaries provided a strong show of support and turned the traditional event into a notable moment on the national calendar.
Context and Implications of the Titles
The conferment of such titles by the Alaafin, a preeminent traditional ruler in Yorubaland, is a practice steeped in history. It serves to recognize individuals for their contributions or to strengthen bonds between the monarchy and influential figures. The title given to Seyi Tinubu, Okanlomo, is particularly affectionate and signifies a deep embrace by the Yoruba traditional institution.
Similarly, bestowing the title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland upon Senator Yari, a political figure from Nigeria's northwest, is seen as a gesture promoting unity and national integration. It reflects the enduring role of traditional stools in fostering relationships across the country's diverse ethnic and political landscape.
The event, widely reported by Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada, marks another chapter in the intersection of Nigeria's modern political dynasties and its ancient traditional systems of honor.
