The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has vehemently rejected reports that accuse him of abandoning the traditional rites leading up to his coronation. In a strong statement released by his media team, Mr. Bode Durojaiye, a member of the team, condemned a recent media report as not only misleading but intentionally slanted to cast doubt on the integrity of the revered throne of Oyo.
In the statement, Durojaiye clarified that the monarch had not even begun the traditional rites, as incorrectly claimed in the media report, which suggested that Oba Owoade had “abandoned” the process midway. The spokesman, addressing the misunderstanding, insisted that the accusation was both unfounded and mischievous, as the traditional rites had yet to commence.
“The report is not only misleading but grossly mischievous,” Durojaiye stated. “The headline is slanted to create a false narrative that contradicts the body of the story, which is clearly unfair to the Alaafin throne and its long-standing traditions.”
Clarifying the Timeline
The allegations surfaced following the recent appointment of Oba Abimbola Owoade, who was officially presented with the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State. The new monarch was said to have traveled to Canada, allegedly abandoning the traditional rites before their commencement. However, the spokesman pointed out that the report itself admitted that the rites had not even begun at the time of the monarch’s trip.
“The Punch itself confirmed this when it reported, ‘Ten days after receiving the staff of office and certificate of appointment from Governor Seyi Makinde, the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has yet to begin the month-long traditional rites to pave the way for his coronation,’” Durojaiye said.
He further clarified that the traditional rites leading up to the coronation are scheduled to begin closer to the April 4, 2025, coronation date, which marks the official crowning of the new monarch. Therefore, the notion that the monarch could abandon rites that have not yet begun is completely unfounded.
Government Informed and In Agreement
In an effort to set the record straight, Durojaiye emphasized that the Oyo State government was well aware of the Alaafin’s movements and was in full agreement with the decisions made regarding the monarch’s schedule. The spokesman confirmed that the Oyo State government had been kept adequately informed about the trip to Canada and had provided its full support.
“The state government is sufficiently aware of the movement and whereabouts of the Alaafin. They are being adequately carried along and in agreement with this issue and others,” Durojaiye said. “The absence of the monarch should not be seen as a contradiction to the ongoing traditional process, as it is well within the time frame allowed by the coronation date.”
According to the spokesman, the monarch’s trip was planned well within the acceptable parameters, allowing him to take care of personal matters abroad without disrupting the traditional process.
Rites Cannot Be Stopped Midway
Durojaiye also stressed that once the traditional rites have started, they cannot be stopped or interrupted. He assured the people of Oyo that there was no possibility of the coronation rites being delayed or altered because of the monarch’s travels. “Once the process begins, it cannot be suspended or put on hold. Tradition does not allow for it. It must be completed,” he asserted.
This strong defense of the monarchy comes at a time when the people of Oyo are eagerly awaiting the formal coronation of Oba Owoade. With deep reverence for the traditions of the Alaafin, the people of Oyo have expressed confidence that the new king will uphold the values and dignity of the throne.
Oba Owoade’s Trip: A Matter of Professional Responsibility
Addressing the reason behind the monarch’s absence, Durojaiye explained that Oba Owoade’s trip to Canada was a necessary step to organize and manage his professional commitments abroad. As a man with multiple engagements and responsibilities, the new Alaafin had to ensure that his affairs were in order before his full immersion into the sacred traditional rites for his coronation.
“Oba Owoade only returned to his Canada base to officially put things in proper order in his workplaces and other engagements abroad,” Durojaiye explained, adding that the trip was consistent with the timeline for the monarch’s official coronation. The spokesman emphasized that Oba Owoade’s commitment to his new role was not in question, nor had he abandoned his duties.
Caution in Reporting Traditions
In conclusion, Durojaiye urged journalists and media practitioners to exercise caution when reporting on issues related to culture and tradition, especially concerning the highly revered institution of Obaship. He advised that matters of such cultural significance should be handled with the utmost respect and accuracy to avoid spreading misleading information that could undermine the people’s confidence in their leaders.
He further expressed hope that future reports would be more in-depth and factually accurate, emphasizing that media outlets should prioritize truth and fairness, especially in matters concerning the monarchy.
“The Alaafin throne is an important cultural and historical institution, and any attempt to tarnish its reputation through sensationalized and unfounded reports is unacceptable. We urge the media to be responsible in their reporting and to ensure that facts are presented with integrity,” Durojaiye concluded.
Alaafin of Oyo’s Legacy
The Alaafin of Oyo is one of the most significant monarchs in Nigerian history, and the traditional rites associated with the ascension to the throne are a deeply sacred and respected process. These rites have been practiced for centuries and are essential for ensuring the legitimacy and authority of the monarch.
The forthcoming coronation of Oba Owoade is seen as a pivotal moment for the Oyo Empire, which has a rich history of traditional rule. As the first monarch to be named in over a decade, his ascension is expected to bring a new era of leadership, cultural preservation, and unity to the people of Oyo State.
