The curfew imposed for the traditional rites of Alaafin-designate, Akeem Owoade, leading up to his April 5 coronation, has been adjusted to start at 10:00 p.m. and end at 4:30 a.m. This change accommodates Muslim prayers during the ongoing Ramadan.
Earlier, the Chief of Staff to the Alaafin-designate, Rotimi Osuntola, had announced an 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. curfew beginning Friday, March 7, to Saturday, March 29, 2025. However, following concerns over Ramadan prayers—including the early morning Fajr and evening Taraweeh prayers—the timing was revised.
Owoade arrived in Oyo town on Thursday to commence his enthronement rites, which will take him through various traditional locations, including Baba Iyaji’s residence, Ona Isokun, Ilemole, Bara, and the Koso chamber, where he will be crowned.
Osuntola reiterated that movement would be restricted during the curfew hours, with violators subject to arrest and detention until 7:00 a.m. the following day. The seclusion ritual, known as Oro Ipebi, is a crucial aspect of the Alaafin’s ascension, involving traditional priests, the Oyo Mesi, and other spiritual leaders to ensure the new monarch’s legitimacy and divine authority.
The final stage of the rites will culminate in the Alaafin-designate’s installation, where he will receive his royal headdress and make offerings to the Orisas and ancestors, solidifying his reign.
