Alaafin: Installation rites to start mid-March

An authoritative source close to the palace in Oyo town has revealed that preparations are in top gear for the commencement of rites of installation for the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

The source, who did not want to be identified, told Saturday Tribune on Friday that the various priests and chiefs connected with the rites had agreed on a date between the first and the second week of March.

It will be recalled that eminent Ifa priest, Prof. Wande Abimbola, had on Thursday explained that the new Alaafin has not breached any aspect of the culture and tradition of Oyo town with his traveling to Canada after being presented with the Instrument of Office.

Prof Abimbola, in a telephone conversation with the Nigerian Tribune, submitted that “the rites have not started, and so there has been no breach of culture and tradition.

“The priests and the kingmakers will decide when to start the rites. In the past, it was Ifa that determined the most auspicious day to start the Ipebi. But, now, the Oyomesi, the council of Babalawo and the priests, will decide when to start.”

Speaking in the same vein in a telephone conversation, the head of the princes, otherwise known as Baba Iyaji, Chief Mukaila Atanda, confirmed to our correspondent that the oba is yet to commence the rites in accordance with the culture and tradition of the ancient town.

“Kabiyesi has gone to Canada. He will commence the rites immediately he returns.”

Also, one of the contestants to the throne who preferred anonymity told our correspondent that Oba Owoade left Oyo town on the same day that he received the instrument of office.

According to him, Oba Owoade left the town around 6.30 pm after visiting some places of historical importance for Ibadan.

“We were told that Alaafin requested a three-week break to tidy up things in Canada.

“He is expected back in the country after the break to commence the traditional rites,” the man said.

Governor Seyi Makinde had on Monday, 13 January 2025, presented Oba Owoade with the Instrument of Office at the Executive Chamber of the Governor”s office in Ibadan

Oba Owoade later left for Oyo, where he was received by a multitude of ecstatic Oyo sons and daughters in a road show across the streets of the ancient town.

All popular markets in the town were shut down in honour of the new monarch.

However, there are reports that Oba Owoade left the country for Canada soon after that ceremony.

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