‘Date For Alaafin Of Oyo’s Traditional Installation Rites Revealed’

Preparations are underway for the commencement of the traditional rites of installation for the new Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade, following his recent presentation with the Instrument of Office by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

A palace source revealed to Nigerian Tribune on Friday that the traditional rites, which are integral to the coronation process, have been tentatively scheduled to begin between the first and second weeks of March.

The source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that priests and chiefs responsible for the rites had reached a consensus on the timeline.

Renowned Ifa priest, Wande Abimbola, clarified that the monarch’s recent trip to Canada has not breached any cultural or traditional requirements.

“The rites have not started, and so there has been no breach of culture and tradition,” Prof. Abimbola told Saturday Tribune on Thursday.

He added, “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 determine when to begin.”

The Baba Iyaji (Head of Princes), Mukaila Atanda, confirmed that Oba Owoade’s rites would commence immediately after his return from Canada.

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

A contestant for the throne, who also spoke anonymously, noted that the monarch travelled to Canada on the same day he received the Instrument of Office.

“Oba Owoade left Oyo around 6:30 pm after visiting some places of historical importance in Ibadan. He requested a three-week break to finalize some matters in Canada and will commence the traditional rites upon his return,” the source disclosed.

On January 13, 2025, Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented Oba Owoade with the Instrument of Office at a ceremony held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s office in Ibadan.

Following the ceremony, the monarch was warmly welcomed in Oyo, where jubilant crowds lined the streets in celebration. All major markets in the ancient town were closed in honour of the new Alaafin.