Tension In Oyo: Alaafin-Elect Owoade Delays Seclusion Rites, Raises Questions

The Head of Oyo Princes, Chief Mukaila Afonja, has clarified that Prince Abimbola Owoade, the Alaafin-elect, is yet to begin the traditional seclusion rites required for his formal installation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a phone interview with Vanguard on Thursday, Afonja explained that the seclusion rites would commence once the Alaafin-elect returns to Nigeria from Canada, where he is reportedly completing the process of resigning from his job.

Following Governor Seyi Makinde’s presentation of the certificate and staff of office to Prince Owoade at the Oyo State Executive Chambers, the Alaafin-elect received a warm welcome upon his return to Oyo. However, shortly after, he traveled to Canada.

Addressing concerns about the delay, Afonja stated that Owoade had only received the certificate and staff of office but had not yet begun the traditional rites. “He has collected only the certificate. He is yet to undergo all the necessary rites. When he comes, he will go into seclusion,” Afonja said.

He further explained that upon his return, Owoade would enter Ipebi (seclusion) to undergo the necessary rites in preparation for his coronation, which is scheduled for April. “He will spend almost 30 days in Ipebi, during which he will receive lessons and tutelage. The rites will begin as soon as he returns,” Afonja added.

When contacted, another source in Oyo dismissed speculations that Ifa priests and traditionalists were hesitant to perform the rites for the Alaafin-elect.

Reflecting on the impact of modernity on traditional kingship practices, the source noted, “In the past, once a king was chosen, he would immediately enter mandatory seclusion for 21 days and complete all the rites before the coronation ceremony and the presentation of staff and certificate. However, modernity has required some adjustments in certain areas.”