Professor Wande Abimbola, renowned scholar, cultural custodian, and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), shared his thoughts on the traditional rites leading to the coronation of the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade. In an interview with LASISI OLAGUNJU and SAHEED SALAWU, he reflected on the process, the significance of tradition, and his expectations for the new king’s reign.
How would you describe the conduct of the installation rites so far?
The entire process has been very smooth and commendable. We give glory to God for that. So far, about 13 distinct stages of the Ipebi rites have been completed successfully without any problems. Everything has gone according to tradition and expectations.
What advice would you give to other communities planning similar rites in the future?
The key to success in any traditional process is following due procedure. In Yoruba history, the Ifa oracle has always played a vital role in selecting kings. Once Ifa reveals the chosen one, and the necessary rites are completed, peace and prosperity usually follow in the land. Unfortunately, the influence of foreign religions has led some Yoruba people to neglect their own cultural heritage, especially the importance of Ifa. That is a mistake that should be corrected.
As someone deeply rooted in tradition, what insight do you have about the reign of the new Alaafin?
Ifa alone reveals what the future holds. During the Ipebi rites, the new Alaafin was presented on three occasions with identical calabashes containing different items. Remarkably, each time, he selected the calabash filled with honey — known as igba oyin — symbolizing sweetness and prosperity. Furthermore, at the House of Ogun, kola nuts were cast seven times, and each time brought a message of good fortune. These signs show that the reign of Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade will bring sweetness, peace, and prosperity to Oyo.
While there are still forces trying to erase Yoruba spiritual and cultural practices, they will not succeed. Ifa will continue to protect and guide our people.
Some people argue that Ifa has never been involved in choosing the Alaafin. What is your response?
That claim is simply not true. The people making such statements were not here before us, and many of them have not witnessed the installation of a single Alaafin. In ancient Yorubaland, Ifa divination guided the selection of kings across different towns. It was only around the 1950s that the erosion of our cultural practices began. Before then — in the 1930s and 1940s — Yoruba traditions were still very much intact and respected.
What advice do you have for the new Alaafin and his Queen?
My message to Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Elewu Etu, is to remain courageous and fearless. The people of Oyo support him wholeheartedly because his emergence was free of any form of bribery or manipulation. He was chosen by Ifa, and that is the ultimate validation. I believe he will rule with wisdom, justice, and compassion. His reign will bring peace and success, and he will be a father to all.
Personally, I wish only for peace and unity among our people. Regardless of religious beliefs — whether Christian, Muslim, or traditional — we are all members of the same family. When a child makes mistakes, we do not abandon them but guide them with love. Everyone should work together to promote and preserve our culture for future generations.
What message do you have for the chiefs in Oyo?
I appeal to the Bashorun and all chiefs who have yet to pay homage to the new Alaafin to put aside any differences and unite behind the king chosen by Ifa. Over 120 candidates contested for the throne, yet it was Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade who emerged, passing every test of integrity and character. Holding on to conflict benefits no one. Let us all embrace peace and unity. With cooperation, Oyo and the entire Yorubaland will continue to enjoy progress and harmony.
