The Alaafin-elect, Prince Akeem Owoade, has unveiled his official title in preparation for his ascension to the throne. The announcement was made in a concise statement issued by the palace on Tuesday.
According to the statement, the Alaafin-elect has chosen to be formally addressed as His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.
The statement further clarified that “This is to inform the general public that the proper manner of addressing the Alaafin for all activities and in the media is EXACTLY as follows: His Imperial Majesty Iku Baba Yeye Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.
“The number after OWOADE is the Roman Numeral One (I), not the English Number One (1).
“The public is enjoined to adhere strictly to use the wordings as exactly as stated above and without adding prefix or suffix to any of the names as stated above.”
This development follows the commencement of a 21-day traditional rite known as “Oro Opebi”, which began earlier this month.
On 7th March, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Rotimi Osuntola, announced the start of the rites in a statement issued in Ibadan. Osuntola confirmed that the rites would conclude on Saturday, 29th March 2025.
The full statement read:
“The Aláàfin of Oyo Kingdom hereby announces the commencement of ÒRÒ ÌPĘBÍ, the mandatory rites for His Imperial Majesty before his ascension to the revered throne of The Aláàfin.
“The rites commence from Friday, March 7, to Saturday, March 29, 2025. Throughout the period, a curfew shall be imposed as it is customary from 8 pm to 6 am daily throughout the Oyo township.
“This means movements are not allowed during the period of the curfew, and anyone who contravenes this order shall be arrested and detained till 7 am of the following day after his or her arrest.
‘It is pertinent to state that ORO IPĘBI, which makes the incoming Aláàfin go into absolute seclusion while it lasts, is sacrosanct for the ascending Ikú-Bàbá-Yèyé and must be respected by all and sundry.”
