The Alaafin of Oyo designate, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has reportedly shunned the Ipebi traditional seclusion rites and jetted out to Canada.
Sources informed our correspondent that the new Alaafin, who was expected to begin his three-week ritual rites at Koso, left for Canada earlier today. Efforts to reach his closest aides for comments have proven abortive, and the reason for this unexpected journey remains unknown at the time of filing this report.
This development comes amid mounting opposition from the Atiba 9, a coalition of princes from nine royal families in Oyo. The Atiba 9 have rejected the appointment of Oba Owoade, describing it as “unacceptable” and a blatant disregard for Oyo’s revered traditions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Prince Sina Afolabi of the Adeitan royal family, the Atiba 9 criticized Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision, accusing him of basing his action on a proclamation by US-based Awise Agbaye, Professor Wande Abimbola. The latter had claimed that Ifa chose Owoade as the next Alaafin of Oyo.
The statement read: “This appointment is contrary to the deeply-rooted customs, culture, and traditions of Oyo. It is also a violation of the rule of law, which should guide the selection process for the throne.”
Recall that Governor Makinde presented the Staff of the Office to Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade on Monday, January 13, 2024, at a ceremony in Ibadan. The event marked nearly three years since the death of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
Sources close to the Kingmakers confirmed that Oba Owoade has not commenced the traditional rites at Koso, sparking further controversy over his legitimacy and commitment to the customs of the revered throne.
This situation is expected to fuel further debates on the process and propriety of his appointment, leaving the people of Oyo in anticipation of the next developments in this unfolding drama.
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