Alaafin-designate Akeem Owoade arrives Nigeria for coronation rites

The newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, has returned to Nigeria from Canada to commence his traditional coronation rites.

The monarch arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday at approximately 6:25 p.m., accompanied by his wife.

His arrival was met with a grand reception featuring traditional dancers and drummers, while dignitaries, including the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Idris Aregbe, were present to welcome him.

Oba Owoade’s return comes after he officially received his certificate of appointment and staff of office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. His next step will be to undergo the sacred rites required for his coronation.

According to his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, all necessary preparations for the traditional rites have been completed. The Alaafin-designate will visit key traditional homes in Oyo town, offering sacrifices and making appeasements as part of the process. Some of these visits will require him to sleep over in designated locations for night rituals.

Following these initial rites, Oba Owoade will enter the Ipebi, a period of seclusion within the Alaafin’s palace, where he will complete the ancestral rituals that mark the final phase before his official coronation.

Durojaiye highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the Alaafin institution, emphasizing its deep-rooted traditions that command reverence across Yorubaland.

“In line with Governor Makinde’s directive for the coronation process to be concluded within four weeks, all traditional rites will be completed before then,” he assured.

With the commencement of these sacred rituals, Oba Owoade is set to fully embrace the revered legacy of the Alaafin throne, continuing a tradition that has shaped Oyo’s history for centuries.

[With additional information from Oyoaffairs]