One of the contenders for the Alaafin of Oyo throne, Prince Ayobami Ladigbolu, has recounted his experiences during the contest for the crown.
In a statement published on Facebook on Tuesday, the prince congratulated the new Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, describing his emergence as divinely ordained.
Reflecting on the competition, the prince expressed disappointment that some of his initial supporters abandoned him in favour of other candidates due to financial constraints.
“I learned the value of money in one’s life from the race for the crown of Alaafinate.
“Due to financial constraints, some of the people who first backed me later switched to another candidate. When I needed their help on the Alaafinate issue, those I had previously supported did the exact reverse for me.
“When it comes to the time to help me, those I have helped with their businesses ran away. I am not upset with them. I just took away some lessons for the future,” he said.
Ladigbolu thanked the Agbonhin Sanda Oridota family and the larger Ladigbolu section of the Agunloye royal family for nominating and supporting him as a candidate for the throne.
Congratulating the new Alaafin, he said, “I congratulate Oba Aláàfin Abimbola Akeem Owoade , the new Àlàáfin of Ọ̀yọ́ town.
“He was chosen by God almighty. Ọba Akeem Abimbola Owoade has been destined to take the throne. I am happy for him. The entire Ladigbolu family felicitate with the new king. Congratulations. Kaabiesi.”
He thanked those who supported him throughout the journey, including his siblings, wife, children and other unnamed benefactors.
The prince also highlighted the camaraderie he shared with other contestants, particularly Prince Kolade Tunde Sanni Oladigbolu and Prince Muideen Adekunle Oladigbolu, whom he described as “blood brothers.”
Ladigbolu urged the people of Oyo to rally behind the new Alaafin.
“I urge the natives of Oyo town to support the new king. Contests for kingship are not without few controversies. We should manage the controversy and support the new king to build a viable Ọ̀yo and Yorùbá land of our dream,” he stated.
