Sh*ck In Oyo: Alaafin Reveals How 16 Gold-Plated Crowns Were Stolen In Daring Raid

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has recounted the theft of 16 gold-plated beaded crowns from the palace during the British invasion of Oyo in November 1895, describing the missing artefacts as irreplaceable symbols of Yoruba heritage and identity.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The monarch made the revelation while hosting the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, at his Boroboro private residence in Oyo. According to a statement from the Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Holloway assured that the NCMM would work diligently toward the repatriation of Oyo artefacts, similar to efforts made with the Benin Bronzes.

Oba Owoade emphasised the significance of the stolen crowns, highlighting their historical, spiritual, and cultural value to the Oyo kingdom. “About 16 gold-plated beaded crowns were stolen during the heinous raid of the palace in November 1895. These artefacts are cultural symbols with profound spiritual and historical importance. Their return is essential for preserving our heritage and identity,” he said.

The monarch also reflected on the prominence of the old Oyo Empire, describing it as a formidable political and military stronghold celebrated for its administrative sophistication and cultural influence. He noted that the artefacts, including sculptures and regalia, document the empire’s history, governance, and daily life.

“The removal of these items, often as plunder or war trophies during 19th-century British punitive expeditions, is a direct outcome of colonial aggression. They are physical reminders of how Britain consolidated trade dominance and extended colonial control,” he added.

Oba Owoade highlighted his role as the traditional custodian of these cultural treasures, serving as a bridge between the past and the future of the Yoruba people. He stated that their return would represent a step toward cultural rejuvenation, national pride, and economic growth through cultural tourism and community empowerment.

Archbishop Emeritus Ayo Ladigbolu, present during the visit, also offered historical context on the 1895 invasion led by British official Captain Robert Bower. He stressed the cultural, spiritual, and historical significance of the stolen artefacts, noting that they serve as tangible links to the Yoruba Empire’s powerful past.

“The stolen Oyo artefacts are not merely museum pieces; they are living heritage with spiritual and ritual significance,” Ladigbolu said. “Their presence is essential for traditional ceremonies, festivals such as Sango and Oranmiyan, and the community’s spiritual well-being. When removed, their historical context is lost, reducing items of profound local meaning to mere exhibits in Western institutions.”

Both the Alaafin and NCMM leadership expressed confidence that ongoing repatriation efforts would restore a major part of Yoruba history and heritage.