The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade has imposed a 21-day curfew in Oyo town in Oyo State, ahead of his coronation.
A statement issued by the prominent monarch’s office on Friday stated that the 21-day traditional rites, known as “Oro Ipebi,” began on Friday night and would conclude on Saturday, 29th March 2025.The statement added that a curfew would be imposed from 8pm to 6am daily within the township.
The statement reads: “The Aláàfin of Oyo Kingdom hereby announces the commencement of ÒRÒ ÌPẸBÍ, the mandatory rites for His Imperial Majesty before his ascension to the reverred throne of the Aláàfin.
“The rites will commence from Friday, 7th March, to Saturday, 29th March 2025. Throughout this period, a curfew shall be imposed, as is customary, from 8 PM to 6 AM daily across Oyo township.“This means movement will not be permitted during the curfew, and anyone who contravenes this order shall be arrested and detained until 7 AM the following day.”
The statement further emphasised the importance of the rites:
“It is pertinent to state that ORO ÌPẸBÍ, which requires the incoming Aláàfin to go into absolute seclusion for its duration, is sacrosanct for the ascending Ikú-Bàbá-Yèyé and must be respected by all and sundry.”
Following the completion of the traditional rites, the coronation ceremony for Oba Owoade is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 5th April 2025, in Oyo town.SaharaReporters earlier reported that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde had formally presented the staff and certificate of office to Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade, marking his official ascension as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.
The ceremony, held at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, celebrated the enthronement of Oba Owoade as the new custodian of the Oyo Kingdom’s rich history and traditions.
In his address, Governor Makinde underscored the Alaafin’s significance as a symbol of unity and cultural heritage, expressing confidence in Oba Owoade’s leadership.In his address, Governor Makinde underscored the Alaafin’s significance as a symbol of unity and cultural heritage, expressing confidence in Oba Owoade’s leadership.
“I believe the new Alaafin will lead with wisdom, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the unity and development of the Oyo Kingdom,” he had said.
Owoade, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo for their support, pledging to prioritise the welfare and development of the kingdom.Meanwhile, the new monarch succeeds Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, who reigned for 51 years before his passing.
Oba Adeyemi’s tenure was noted for its influence and longevity, making him a revered figure in Oyo history.
Makinde earlier approved the selection of Prince Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo by the Oyomesi, the traditional council of kingmakers.
The announcement was confirmed in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade.The statement stated that Prince Owoade’s selection came after extensive consultations and traditional divinations, solidifying his recommendation by the Oyomesi.
Hon. Ademola Ojo, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, also noted that the governor’s approval had resolved the legal and social disputes that arose following the passing of the previous Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022.