New Alaafin Delays Traditional Rites, Heads to Canada
The newly selected Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has delayed the commencement of his traditional rites following his return to Canada to address personal and professional matters. This delay comes ahead of his coronation ceremony, which is now scheduled for April 4, 2025.
Oba Owoade received his staff of office and certificate of appointment from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025. Tradition dictates that after these official recognitions, the Alaafin-elect should immediately begin the series of rituals and rites essential for his enthronement. However, contrary to expectations, Owoade left Nigeria for Canada just a day after the ceremony.
Sources close to the monarch revealed that Owoade’s return to Canada was necessitated by the need to resign from his professional obligations and finalise paperwork. The Alaafin-elect, a Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur, holds a leadership role in the real estate and financial services sectors and serves as a project coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s major utility companies.
A close associate of the Alaafin-elect explained, “He has to officially resign from the organisations he works for in Canada and complete the necessary formalities before permanently relocating to Oyo. These steps are unavoidable, and they take time.” The source also noted that once the traditional rites begin, they must proceed without interruption, requiring the Alaafin-elect to be fully prepared to commit to the intensive process.
The enthronement process involves elaborate rituals, sacrifices, and visits to sacred locations in Oyo. Central to this process is the Ipebi ritual, a spiritual seclusion period where the Alaafin-elect undergoes guidance and training from spiritual leaders, including the Oluawo (Ifa priest) and the Oyo Mesi (the kingmakers).
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The Ipebi is regarded as one of the most critical stages of the traditional rites, symbolising the monarch’s spiritual rebirth and preparation to assume his royal duties. After completing the rites, Oba Owoade will be crowned in the Koso chamber of the Alaafin’s palace, a ceremony that officially solidifies his authority as the custodian of Oyo’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Despite the delay in starting the traditional rites, preparations for the coronation are ongoing. Dotun Oyelade, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Information, has confirmed that Oba Owoade’s coronation date remains set for April 4, 2025.
The commissioner reassured the public that the new monarch’s return to Canada does not diminish his commitment to the throne. “He is taking necessary steps to ensure a seamless transition into his royal responsibilities,” Oyelade said.
The people of Oyo have expressed mixed reactions to the delay. While some appreciate the need for the Alaafin-elect to settle his affairs abroad, others hope the process can proceed without further postponement. Many eagerly anticipate the conclusion of the traditional rites and the return of Oba Owoade to lead the ancient kingdom of Oyo.
The Alaafin of Oyo is one of Nigeria’s most revered traditional rulers, and the enthronement process is steeped in centuries-old traditions. As the April 4 coronation date approaches, the people of Oyo remain hopeful for a smooth and successful transition under the leadership of Oba Akeem Owoade.
Content Credit| Oyedepo Oluwafifedoyinsola Precious
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