The newly crowned Alaafin of Ọyọ, Ọba Abimbọla Ọwọade, has arrived in Nigeria after landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Wednesday evening, signaling the commencement of his highly anticipated traditional rites.
Accompanied by his wife, the monarch’s arrival at around 6:25 PM. was met with a warm welcome from a host of dignitaries and traditional performers.
The Alaafin of Ọyọ had on Wednesday returned to Nigeria, after spending about seven weeks in his Canada base.
His return came exactly a month before his official coronation as the 45th Alaafin of Ọyọ, scheduled for April 5.
Among those present to greet the Alaafin was Idris Arẹgbẹ, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture. A celebration followed, as the new ruler was honored by traditional dancers and drummers, adding a cultural flair to the royal homecoming.
Ọba Ọwọade’s arrival marks the beginning of an important phase in his ascension to the throne of the ancient Ọyọ kingdom. Recently, the newly appointed monarch received his certificate of appointment and the staff of office as the 46th Alaafin from Governor Seyi Makinde of Ọyọ State.
This official recognition has paved the way for the crucial traditional rites that are a significant part of the coronation process.
Bọde Durojaiye, the media aide to the new Alaafin, confirmed earlier this week that everything is set for the start of the mandatory traditional ceremonies.
These rites include a series of sacrificial offerings, appeasements, and even overnight stays at various ancestral homes throughout Ọyọ town. These rituals, which will take place over the next several days, are designed to honor the sacred traditions of the Yoruba people.
“The traditional rites are a key part of the royal institution in Ọyọ, and they will culminate in the seclusion phase, known as ‘Ipẹbi,’ where the new Alaafin will spend time in isolation within the Alaafin palace. This period marks the final phase of the rites before the full coronation is completed,” explained Durojaiye.
The Ipẹbi ritual is one of the most revered customs in the Ọyọ kingdom, often regarded as the zenith of the traditional rites. It is during this time that the new Alaafin will fully immerse in the ancient spiritual practices that have upheld the dignity of the throne for centuries.
The sacredness of the process is one of the reasons the Ọyọ traditional monarchy remains a cornerstone of Yoruba cultural heritage and commands deep respect among its people.
According to Durojaiye, the Alaafin institution is deeply woven into the fabric of Yoruba history, with the legendary feats of past rulers serving as enduring lessons and sources of pride for the people. He emphasized that the monarchy is not just a symbol of leadership but a representation of the strength and continuity of Yoruba traditions.
The traditional rites are expected to be completed within a 21-day timeline, in line with the directive from the Ọyọ State Government to finalize the coronation of Ọba Abimbọla Ọwọade on the 5th of April 2025.
With the stage now set, the people of Ọyọ and beyond are eagerly anticipating the full enthronement of their new monarch.
As Ọba Ọwọade prepares for this sacred phase of his reign, his journey stands as a testament to the living traditions of the Ọyọ Kingdom, one that will be closely watched and celebrated both locally and internationally.
