The mandatory traditional rites for the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, are set to begin, as confirmed by the monarch’s media aide, Bode Durojaiye, in a statement on Monday.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, had earlier presented Oba Owoade with a certificate of appointment and staff of office in Ibadan, solidifying his position as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
Durojaiye explained that as part of the traditional process, the new Alaafin will visit several homes in Oyo town for ritual offerings, sacrifices, and appeasements. He will also spend the night at certain locations to complete night rites.
After fulfilling the traditional requirements at various homes, the monarch will enter the Ipebi (seclusion) phase to conclude the rites at a secluded part of the Alaafin palace.
He elaborated that the ancestral rituals performed during the Ipebi phase would mark the culmination of the rites before the new Alaafin is formally crowned.
The media aide emphasized that the Alaafin institution is highly respected, with a history rooted in the achievements of past monarchs, which continue to be honored through oral traditions and historical records. The sacredness of this institution is a key reason why the Oyo traditional monarchy system remains deeply revered.
Durojaiye reassured that the rites would be completed within the governor’s four-week directive for the coronation.
Oba Akeem Owoade, who is currently residing in Canada, is expected to arrive in Oyo town soon to commence the final stages of the process.
Punch
