Alaafin undergoes final traditional rites, set date for coronation

The Alaafin-elect, Oba Akeem Owoade 1, will undergo the last leg of traditional rites (Oro Ipebi) tonight at the Sango shrine at Koso in Oyo town.

This was according to a release by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Bode Durojaiye in Ibadan, on Friday.

The statement said Oba Owoade would be accompanied by members of the traditional council, the Oyo mesi, Princes and Princesses from all the royal families, traditional religion priests, the Baales (village heads), and a section of residents.

“The royal father would sleep over at the shrine where he will be worn with the Sango crown by Baba Mogba in the early morning of Saturday, as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

“Immediately after the wearing of Sango crown, everybody present at the historical event, including the Oyo mesi members, will prostrate and say Kabiyesi to the Alaafin,” Durojaiye stated.

He added that the activity was a prelude to the official coronation ceremony that would take place on April 5, 2025, at the open field of Oliveth Heights, Oyo.