New Alaafin of Oyo unveils official title

The Alaafin-elect, Prince Akeem Owoade, has formally unveiled his official royal title ahead of his coronation.

In a statement issued by the palace on Tuesday, it was announced that he will be formally addressed as: “His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.”

The palace emphasized that the numeral “I” after Owoade is a Roman numeral one (I), not the English number one (1).

“This is to inform the general public that the proper manner of addressing the Alaafin for all activities and in the media is EXACTLY as follows: His Imperial Majesty Iku Baba Yeye Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, Alaafin of Oyo.

“The number after OWOADE is the Roman Numeral One (I), not the English Number One (1). “The public is enjoined to adhere strictly to use the wordings as exactly as stated above and without adding prefix or suffix to any of the names as stated above,” the statement read in part.

This announcement comes as the newly selected monarch undergoes the 21-day traditional rites, popularly known as Oro Opebi, marking his transition to the revered throne.

The Chief of Staff to the Alaafin, Rotimi Osuntola, previously confirmed in Ibadan that the traditional rites, which began on March 7, will conclude on Saturday, March 29, 2025.