New Alaafin’s traditional rites put on hold as he returns to Canada

-Coronation set for April 4

Ten days after receiving the staff of office and certificate of appointment from Governor Seyi Makinde, the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has yet to begin the traditional rites required for his coronation, which is scheduled for April 4.

Governor Makinde, during the January 13 ceremony at the Oyo Governor’s Office, Ibadan, handed over the certificate and staff of office to Owoade, announcing that the coronation would take place in four weeks. After the ceremony, Owoade was warmly received in Oyo town, where he visited his family and celebrated with residents.

However, contrary to expectations that the Alaafin-elect would commence the month-long traditional rites immediately, he traveled back to Canada the following day.

Sources reveal that Owoade returned to Canada to officially resign from his workplaces and finalize personal arrangements before beginning the rites.

The Alaafin-elect is a prominent Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist, serving as President of 100279 Manitoba Limited, a real estate and financial services company in Manitoba, Canada. He is also a Project Coordinator at Manitoba Hydro, one of Canada’s largest utility providers.

Traditional custodians in Oyo town have confirmed that Owoade is yet to start the rites, which involve several ceremonies, sacrifices, and visits to sacred sites, including the Ipebi (seclusion) ritual. These rituals, guided by the Oluawo (Ifa priest), Oyo Mesi, and other traditional stakeholders, are critical for conferring spiritual authority on the new Alaafin.

As of Wednesday, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that the state government had approved April 4 as the coronation date.

The rites are expected to begin once Owoade returns, setting the stage for his official enthronement as the Alaafin of Oyo.

Credit: Oyo Affairs

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