Prince Ayobami Ladigbolu Reflects on Alaafin Throne Contest and Offers Support to New Monarch

Prince Ayobami Ladigbolu, one of the contenders for the prestigious Alaafin of Oyo throne, has opened up about his experiences throughout the intense competition for the royal position.

In a heartfelt post shared on his Facebook page, the prince offered his congratulations to the newly crowned Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, expressing his belief that the new monarch’s ascension was divinely ordained.

Looking back at the contest, Prince Ladigbolu revealed the challenges he faced, particularly the disappointment he felt when some of his early supporters backed out due to financial difficulties. “From this journey, I truly learned the importance of money in life,” he reflected. “Some of those who initially supported me shifted their allegiance to another candidate, unable to continue offering their support due to financial pressures. I found that, when I needed help the most, some of those I had previously supported made the same move.” Despite these setbacks, he expressed no bitterness, acknowledging that the experience had taught him valuable lessons for the future.

The prince continued, “I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Oba Aláàfin Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the new Alaafin of Oyo town. He was chosen by God and is truly destined to occupy this sacred throne. I am pleased for him, and on behalf of the entire Ladigbolu family, we extend our heartfelt congratulations. Kaabiesi!”

In addition to recognizing the divine hand in the new king’s rise, Ladigbolu also expressed deep gratitude to the people who stood by him during the contest, including his immediate family—his siblings, wife, and children—along with other unnamed supporters. He emphasized the strong sense of unity he felt with his fellow royal contenders, particularly Prince Kolade Tunde Sanni Oladigbolu and Prince Muideen Adekunle Oladigbolu, whom he referred to as “blood brothers.”

Despite the intense nature of the contest, Ladigbolu urged the people of Oyo to put aside any lingering disputes and fully support the new Alaafin. “I encourage the people of Oyo to unite behind the new king. Kingship contests can be contentious, but we must work together to overcome any challenges. Let’s support our new monarch in building a prosperous Oyo and a thriving Yoruba land,” he said.

In closing, Ladigbolu expressed his sincere thanks to the Agbonhin Sanda Oridota family and the larger Ladigbolu section of the Agunloye royal family for their nomination and unwavering support throughout his candidacy.