By Ghazali Ibrahim 
The new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has arrived in Nigeria after spending seven weeks in Canada.
He landed at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos State on Wednesday, accompanied by his wife, and was received with a vibrant ceremony featuring traditional dancers and drummers.
The Alaafin-designate’s return comes just a month before his official coronation, scheduled for April 5.
Preparations for the coronation are already underway, despite ongoing legal challenges to Owoade’s emergence as Alaafin.
Before his coronation, Owoade will undergo traditional rites, including a visit to the Baba Iyaji residence, Ona Isokun, Ilemole, and Bara, followed by a procession to the Koso chamber accompanied by his chiefs and priests.
The Ipebi (seclusion) ritual is also part of the traditional rites, where the Oluawo (Ifa priest) will serve as the spiritual guide and advisor to the Alaafin.
The Oyo Mesi, priests, and priestesses will also play key roles in offering prayers, performing sacrifices, and providing spiritual support.
Owoade’s coronation will be the culmination of these traditional rites, where he will be crowned with his royal headdress, symbolizing his renewed spiritual authority.
It’s worth noting that Owoade’s appointment as the new Alaafin has been challenged in court by two Oyo princes, Prince Lukman Gbadegesin and Ismaila Owoade, who claim that the appointment process was flawed.
