The newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has postponed the commencement of his traditional rites after returning to Canada for personal and professional reasons.
His coronation, originally scheduled for April 4, remains on hold as preparations continue.
Oba Owoade, who received his staff of office and certificate of appointment from Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, was expected to begin the traditional processes leading to his enthronement. However, he briefly visited Oyo town after his official appointment and departed for Canada the next day.
Finalizing Commitments in Canada
According to sources close to the monarch, Oba Owoade returned to Canada to officially resign from his professional roles and complete necessary paperwork before resuming his duties in Oyo.
“He has to finalise his resignation and perfect all paperwork related to his engagements in Canada,” a source revealed. “Once he begins the traditional rites, it will be a continuous process lasting almost a month.”
The Alaafin-elect, a Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur, heads a real estate and financial services company and serves as the project coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s leading utility firms.
Traditional Rites Preparations
Despite the delay, preparations for the rites are reportedly underway. These include the Ipebi ritual, a month-long seclusion period where the Alaafin-elect undergoes spiritual guidance. The Oluawo (Ifa priest), Oyo Mesi, and other traditional leaders will play pivotal roles in the rituals, which also involve sacrifices and visits to sacred locations in Oyo.
The coronation will culminate in the Koso chamber, where Oba Owoade will be formally crowned, solidifying his spiritual and royal authority.
Mixed Reactions
While some have expressed understanding of the monarch’s need to fulfil prior obligations, others have raised concerns about the delay. Nonetheless, the Oyo community remains optimistic about the Alaafin-elect’s return and the continuation of the rich cultural traditions that define the institution.
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