All is now set for the mandatory traditional rites of the new Alaafin, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade.
It would be recalled that the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, had presented a certificate of appointment and staff of office to Oba Owoade at the Governor’s Office, Ibadan, affirming his appointment as the 46th Alaafin.
As part of the process, 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.
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.
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In a press release issued by the Alaafin’s Media Aide, Bode Durojaiye, the ancestral rituals to be done during Ipebi would be the crescendo of rituals before Oba Owoade is crowned Alaafin.
The sacredness of the Alaafin institution is one of the few reasons why the Oyo traditional monarchy system and values have garnered so much respect and admiration over the years.
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 accordance with the governor’s four-week directive to conduct the coronation, the traditional rites will be concluded before then.
The new Alaafin is expected in the ancient town from Canada at any moment now.
(Guardian)
