The Alaafin-elect of Oyo, Prince Akeem Owoade, has officially announced his preferred royal title. The declaration was made public through an official statement from the palace on Tuesday.
The statement notes that the new Alaafin wishes 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 announcement comes shortly after the commencement of the 21-day traditional rites known as Oro Ipebi, which mark an essential step before the new Alaafin fully ascends the throne.
On March 7, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Rotimi Osuntola, issued a statement in Ibadan confirming the beginning of the rites. He explained that the Oro Ipebi ritual, a mandatory seclusion period for the Alaafin-elect, would continue until Saturday, March 29, 2025.
“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.”
The Oro Ipebi tradition is a sacred process in Yoruba culture, where a newly chosen Alaafin undergoes seclusion and spiritual fortification before assuming his full responsibilities. During this period, a nighttime curfew is imposed, restricting movement within Oyo town to ensure the sanctity of the rites.
