The upcoming coronation of Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, scheduled for April 5, 2025, is proceeding as planned despite reports suggesting potential obstacles. Owoade’s Chief of Staff, Rotimi Osuntola, has dismissed claims that the absence of the Apetunmodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Joseph Oloyede, whose whereabouts have been unknown since January 2024, could jeopardize the coronation. Osuntola asserts that while some recent oral traditions may mention the Apetumodu’s involvement, historical records do not support the claim that his presence is essential to the legitimacy of the Alaafin’s ascension. The Oyo State Government, having already presented Owoade with the staff and instrument of office in January 2025, has formed a 25-member committee to oversee the coronation ceremony. Osuntola emphasizes that the necessary traditional rites are being meticulously followed and that any assertions contradicting this are misleading.
The controversy surrounding the coronation stems from the contested selection process, with other contenders for the throne, including Lukman Gbadegesin and Ismail Owoade, challenging the legitimacy of Akeem Owoade’s appointment. They have declared the process “unlawful, unconstitutional, invalid, null and void.” However, the Alaafin-elect’s camp remains steadfast in its position, emphasizing the adherence to historical precedent and dismissing the alleged importance of the Apetumodu’s presence. Osuntola points to a lack of historical evidence supporting the claim of the Apetumodu’s indispensable role in the coronation process, citing the absence of any such mention in Samuel Johnson’s seminal work, “The History of the Yorubas (1921).”
Central to Osuntola’s argument is the significance of the Sword of Oranyan, considered the most sacred symbol of the Alaafin’s authority. This sword, traditionally sent from Ile-Ife, represents the continuation of Oranmiyan’s legacy and is paramount in the installation rites. Osuntola explains that during the Ipebi rites, the original Sword of Oranyan is sent from Ile-Ife to Oyo and then returned. A replica is subsequently sent back to the Alaafin to keep. This tradition, according to Osuntola, is meticulously documented and reinforces the validity of Owoade’s upcoming coronation. He maintains that the core aspects of the installation, including the reception of the Sword of Oranyan, remain intact.
Osuntola further strengthens his argument by referencing other authoritative sources on Yoruba history and tradition, such as C.L. Adeoye’s “Asa ati Ise Yoruba,” specifically Chapter 13, which details the installation rites of the Alaafin. He emphasizes the section concerning the Oranmiyan sword, further underscoring its importance in the coronation process. In addition to written historical accounts, Osuntola mentions extensive consultations with elders who witnessed the Ipebi rites of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. These consultations serve to solidify the claim that the coronation is proceeding in accordance with established customs and traditions.
The insistence on the established historical procedures, particularly the reception of the Sword of Oranyan, serves to counter the arguments made by those contesting Owoade’s ascension. By emphasizing the adherence to tradition and the documented historical significance of the Sword of Oranyan, Osuntola aims to legitimize Owoade’s claim to the throne and dismiss the perceived importance of the absent Apetunmodu. The focus on the well-established historical precedents seeks to provide a firm foundation for Owoade’s reign and quell any doubts regarding the legitimacy of his coronation.
In summary, the Alaafin-elect’s camp maintains that the coronation will proceed as scheduled, emphasizing the strict adherence to historical traditions and the documented significance of the Sword of Oranyan. They dismiss the alleged importance of the Apetunmodu’s presence and highlight the thorough preparations undertaken by the Oyo State Government, including the formation of a dedicated committee. Despite the ongoing legal challenges from rival claimants, the Alaafin-elect’s team expresses confidence in the legitimacy of the process and the historical backing for Akeem Owoade’s ascension to the throne. The stage is thus set for the coronation of the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, amidst a backdrop of tradition, controversy, and anticipation.
