The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, on Sunday declared the National Coordinator of the Oodua People’s Congress, Gani Adams, as the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland.

The position was held last by the late MKO Abiola, who died in the detention camp of the late military dictator, Gen. Sani Abacha, in 1998 for refusing to trade his presidential mandate for freedom.

In June this year, there was an indication that Adams could be named the new Generalismo of Yorubaland by the monarch but the OPC leader refused to confirm nor deny the rumour.

But Alaafin, who confirmed the declaration to one of our correspondents in a chat on Sunday night, said that a letter of appointment had been issued to Adams during his (monarch’s) 79th birthday celebration.

“Yes, I have confirmed Otunba Gani Adams as the next Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland. He emerged out of the five aspirants that I considered for the position but I will hold a press conference where he will be formally announced. It is after this announcement that the traditional rites for his installation will start,” he said.

When asked how the lot fell on Adams, the first-class monarch said this would be disclosed during his press conference scheduled for this week.

Mr. Segun Akanni, who is the Personal Assistant to Adams, also confirmed the appointment on Sunday evening.

He quoted Adams as saying he was honoured to be chosen for such an exalted position in Yorubaland.