The Alaafin-elect of Oyo, Prince Akeem Owoade, has officially announced his preferred royal title.
In a statement released by the palace on Tuesday, he declared that he would be addressed as His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.
The statement emphasized that the Roman numeral “I” after his name signifies his position as the first of his lineage with the title and should not be mistaken for the English number “1.”
“This is to inform the general public that the proper manner of addressing the Alaafin for all activities and in the media is EXACTLY as follows: His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo,” the palace statement read.
It further urged strict adherence to the official title without modifications.
The announcement comes as the Alaafin-elect undergoes Oro Ipẹbi, a mandatory 21-day traditional seclusion before ascending the throne.
On March 7, the monarch’s Chief of Staff, Rotimi Osuntola, confirmed the commencement of the rites in a separate statement.
“The Aláàfin of Oyo Kingdom hereby announces the commencement of ÒRÒ ÌPẸBÍ, the mandatory rites for His Imperial Majesty before his ascension to the revered throne of The Aláàfin,” Osuntola stated.
The rites, which began on Friday, March 7, are set to conclude on Saturday, March 29, 2025. During this period, a nightly curfew from 8 PM to 6 AM has been imposed across Oyo town.
“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 AM of the following day,” the statement warned.
Osuntola reiterated that Oro Ipẹbi requires the Alaafin-elect to remain in complete seclusion throughout the process, emphasizing its significance in Yoruba tradition.
“The incoming Aláàfin must undergo absolute seclusion while it lasts. This is sacrosanct for the ascending Ikú-Bàbá-Yèyé and must be respected by all,” he added.
