The newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has commenced the 21-day traditional rites known as “Oro Ipebi,” a mandatory ritual before his official ascension to the throne.
The Chief of Staff to the monarch, Rotimi Osuntola, confirmed this in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
According to Osuntola, the rites will conclude on 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 statement read.
As part of the tradition, a curfew will be imposed throughout Oyo township from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily for the duration of the rites.
“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 a.m. of the following day after his or her arrest,” the statement added.
Osuntola emphasized the significance of the rites, stating, “‘It is pertinent to state that ORO IPĘBI which makes the incoming Aláàfin to go into absolute seclusion while it lasts is sacrosanct for the ascending Ikú-Bàbá-Yèyé and must be respected by all and sundry.”
The coronation ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Oyo town.
