Olayomi Koiki
OYO TOWN – All is now set for the mandatory traditional rites for the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, an Alaafin’s media aide on Monday.
In January, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde presented a certificate of appointment and staff of office to Oba Owoade at his office in Ibadan, affirming Owoade appointment as the 46th Alaafin.
“As part of the processes, Alaafin Owoade would visit a number of houses to offer sacrifices, make appeasements, and even sleep over at some of the houses to carry out some night rites,” Alaafin’s media aide, Bode Durojaiye said in a statement on Monday.
“After performing the traditional rites at some traditional homes in Oyo town, the new Alaafin will then enter Ipebi (seclusion) for the conclusion of the traditional rites within a secluded part of the Alaafin palace.”
Durojaiye said that the ancestral rituals to be done during Ipebi would be the crescendo of rituals before the monarch is crowned Alaafin.
He noted that the sacredness of the Alaafin institution was one of the few reasons why the Oyo traditional monarchy system and values have garnered so much respect and admiration over the years.
The Alaafin’s media aide added: “The institution inspires nothing short of reverence. The legendary feats of the Titan of Yorubaland in times past were blessings of oral history, with in-depth documentation of historical accomplishments.
“However, in continuation of the governor’s four weeks’ directive to conduct the coronation, the traditional rites will be concluded before then,” he assured.
The new Alaafin is expected in the ancient town of Oyo from Canada anytime soon.
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