Alaafin-elect embarks on final traditional rites ahead of coronation
By Adejayan Gbenga
The Alaafin-elect, Oba Akeem Owoade I, will today, Friday, March 28, 2025, perform the final phase of traditional rites, popularly known as Oro Ipebi.
The rites are expected to take place tonight at the Sango shrine in Koso, Oyo town.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Bode Durojaiye, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
According to the statement, Oba Owoade will be accompanied by members of the traditional council, the Oyo Mesi, princes and princesses from all the royal families, traditional religious priests, village heads (Baales), and a section of residents.
“The royal father will spend the night at the shrine, where he will be adorned with the Sango crown by Baba Mogba in the early hours of Saturday as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
“Immediately after receiving the Sango crown, everyone present at the historic event, including members of the Oyo Mesi, will prostrate and hail him as Kabiyesi,” the statement read.
The rites serve as a prelude to the official coronation ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on April 5, 2025, at the open field of Oliveth Heights, Oyo.
