The palace of the Alaafin of Oyo Monday declared that all is now set for the mandatory traditional rites of the new Alaafin, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade.
A statement issued in Oyo by the Alaafin’s media aide, Mr Bode Durojaye, said as part of the mandatory processes, Alaafin Owoade would visit a number of houses to offer sacrifices, make appeasements, and even sleep over at some of the houses to carry out some night rites.
Mr Durojaye stated further that, “After performing the traditional rites at some traditional homes in Oyo town, the new Alaafin will then enter Ipebi (seclusion) for the conclusion of the traditional rites within a secluded part of the Alaafin palace.”
He pointed out that the ancestral rituals to be done during Ipebi would be the crescendo of rituals before Oba Owoade is crowned Alaafin.
“The sacredness of the Alaafin institution is one of the few reasons why Oyo traditional monarchy system and values have garnered so much respect and admiration over the years,” he said.
Mr Durojaye added: “The institution inspires nothing but reverence. The legendary feat of the titan of Yorubaland in time past were blessings of oral history, with in-depth documentation of historical accomplishments.
“However sequel to the governor’s four week directive to do the coronation, the traditional rites will be concluded before then. The new Alaafin is expected in the ancient town from Canada any moment from now,” he said.