Professor Abimbola; Alaafin’s Rites Begins After his Return.
Renowned Ifa priest Professor Wande Abimbola has assured the public that the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has not violated any traditional norms by travelling to Canada shortly after receiving his instrument of office.
This clarification comes amid questions surrounding the timing and sequence of the traditional rites for the new monarch. On Monday, January 13, 2025, Governor Seyi Makinde formally presented Oba Owoade with the Instrument of Office at a ceremony in the executive chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan. Following the ceremony, the new monarch was warmly welcomed in Oyo, where residents, including traders, temporarily shut down popular markets to celebrate their new king.
However, reports soon emerged that Oba Owoade departed for Canada on the same day as the ceremony. Addressing concerns, Professor Abimbola stated in a conversation with the Nigerian Tribune that the monarch’s travel was in accordance with tradition. “The rites have not yet begun, and there has been no breach of cultural norms,” he explained.
Professor Abimbola further clarified that the commencement of the traditional rites is determined by the kingmakers and priests. In the past, the Ifa oracle would choose the most auspicious day for the rites to begin. Today, this responsibility lies with the Oyomesi (the traditional kingmakers) and the council of Babalawo (Ifa priests), who decide the appropriate timing.
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Chief Mukaila Atanda, the Baba Iyaji (head of the princes), echoed this statement, confirming that the rites have yet to begin. “Kabiyesi has gone to Canada. The rites will commence once he returns,” he said.
An anonymous source, a former contestant for the Alaafin throne, revealed that Oba Owoade left Oyo around 6:30 pm on the day he received his instrument of office. The monarch had visited historical sites in Ibadan earlier in the day and had requested a three-week leave to attend to personal and official matters in Canada. He is expected to return after this period and immediately begin the traditional rites.
This development underscores the adaptability of Oyo’s cultural practices while maintaining a deep respect for tradition. By entrusting the timing of the rites to the kingmakers and priests, Oyo’s royal practices continue to be rooted in the customs that define the ancient town. Oba Owoade’s journey to Canada is seen as a modern adjustment, balancing tradition with practical considerations, rather than a deviation from customary norms.
Content Credit| Oyedepo Oluwafifedoyinsola Preciious
Picture Credit | https://www.intelregion.com/
