The Alaafin-elect, Prince Akeem Owoade has released his official title.
The Alaafin made this known in a terse statement from the palace on Tuesday.
The statement said the Alaafin prefers to be addressed as His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo
“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,” the statement reads.
This came days after he commenced a 21-day traditional rites popularly known as “Oro Opebi.”
On March 7, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Rotimi Osuntola, in Ibadan, announced the commencement of the 21-day traditional rites in a statement.
Osuntola said the traditional rites would end on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
The 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.”
