The Alaafin-elect, Prince Akeem Owoade, has officially revealed his title. According to a brief statement from the palace issued on Tuesday, the Alaafin prefers to be addressed as His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.
The palace statement emphasized that the proper title should be used in all activities and media references, stating.
“The correct form of addressing the Alaafin is as follows: His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo. The numeral after OWOADE is the Roman numeral ‘I’, not the English numeral ‘1’. The public is urged to strictly adhere to this exact phrasing without any added prefixes or suffixes.”
This announcement follows the commencement of a 21-day traditional rite, known as “Oro Opebi,” which began on March 7. The rites are expected to conclude on March 29, 2025.
In a related statement, the Chief of Staff to the Alaafin-elect, Rotimi Osuntola, explained that a curfew would be enforced daily from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. throughout Oyo town during this period. Any violations of the curfew will result in arrest and detention until the following morning.
The Oro Opebi rites, which include complete seclusion of the incoming Alaafin, are considered a sacred and vital tradition in the ascension to the throne. The Oyo community is urged to respect these rites during the period.
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