The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba AbdulAkeem Owoade, has commenced the 21 days traditional rites known as “Oro Opebi” on Friday night.
The Chief of Staff to the Alaafin, Mr. Rotimi Osuntola, made this known in a statement in Ibadan on Friday.
According to the statement, the traditional rites which started yesterday will end on Saturday, 29th March, 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 rites commence from Friday, March 7, to Saturday, March 29, 2025. Throughout the period, a curfew shall be imposed as it is customary from 8 pm to 6 am daily throughout the Oyo township.
“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 after his or her arrest.
‘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 statement reads.
Meanwhile, the coronation ceremony is scheduled to hold on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Oyo town.