Culture

New Alaafin of Oyo begins 21-days traditional rites

Published

2 years ago

January 13, 2025

Oba Abimbola Owoade, the new Alaafin of Oyo, has commenced a 21-day traditional rite, marking his ascension to the historic throne.

The newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has begun a 21-day traditional rite marking his ascension to the throne of the historic Yoruba kingdom.

Governor Seyi Makinde officially announced Owoade as the Alaafin-elect last Friday, following which he presented the new monarch with the staff of office during a ceremony held on Monday.

The event was graced by the Oyomesi (the kingmakers), top government officials, and notable personalities from Oyo State.

Oba Owoade succeeds the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who ruled the Oyo Kingdom for over five decades before passing away three years ago.

After receiving the staff of office, the Alaafin-elect journeyed to Oyo town to meet his subjects and formally commence the rites of ascension.

A source close to the palace disclosed that Oba Owoade will observe the mandatory 21 days of traditional ceremonies required for his enthronement as the Alaafin of Oyo.

“Oba Owoade has headed to Oyo town to meet the sons and daughters of Oyo and will proceed with the 21 days of traditional rites for the ascension to the throne of his forefathers,” the source said.

The rites are a critical part of the coronation process in Yoruba tradition, involving prayers, rituals, and other cultural practices to fortify the new king spiritually and affirm his legitimacy as a divine ruler.

The ascension of a new Alaafin is a significant event in Yoruba culture, symbolising continuity and stability in one of Nigeria’s oldest monarchies.

Oba Abimbola Owoade’s reign is expected to foster unity and development in Oyo State and beyond.

As part of the ancient traditions, the Alaafin is regarded not only as a political figure but also as a spiritual leader and custodian of Yoruba culture and heritage.

The new monarch’s 21-day rites serve as a bridge between the rich history of the Oyo Kingdom and its evolving role in contemporary society.

The people of Oyo await the conclusion of the rites, which will culminate in the final ceremonies, officially marking the beginning of Oba Owoade’s reign.

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Culture

WAKE UP! Art Exhibition Returns for a Second Act

Published

2 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Mariam Balogun

The contemporary art and photography exhibition “Wake Up!” is back again for a second edition.

Curated by Awele Onwordi, Wake Up! 2 exhibition pays homage to the Nigerian youth and burgeoning street culture which many of its contributing artists reference in their works.

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Titled “Young, Wild, Free”, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, resilience, freedom and cultural influence found in Nigerian youth.

Taking aim at societal issues and economic concerns, the exhibit reflects the youth and their refusal to compromise or bow despite all the challenges stacked against them while charting youth culture through art, music, fashion, skateboarding, photography and community.

The exhibition will be held, once again, at the Angel and Muse Gallery at 25 Sumbo Jibowu street off Ribadu Road off Awolowo Road in Ikoyi.

It will open on Saturday 5 September 2026 and will run until 11 September 2026
This second edition which focuses on celebrating, nurturing and exploring artistic practices rooted in youth and street culture will feature works from DENCITY and SUPERGLIDER HOUSE.

Exhibiting artists include Ajilore Kehinde – their work is deeply influenced by Nigerian street culture and works of other artists like Slawn, Peters Ejiro, etc, Chuka Onwordi – graphic designer who embodies themes of death, melancholy and beauty in his works, ZIDYEP – Abuja based creative whose works move between digital and physical spaces through art, graphic design and air brushing , Franklyn Okoye – graphic designer and artist whose works explore themes of identity and hyper-reality, Awele Onwordi – founder & curator of WAKE UP and multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans character art, creative logo design, album covers and more , Oluchi Kogolo – digital illustrator whose work explores street culture, personality and storytelling through a raw and playful visual style and Kozetuo Apeji – multidisciplinary artists who work explores experimental approaches to problem solving through both digital and traditional art forms.

Commenting on the exhibition in her curatorial statement, Awele noted that “despite economic instability, limited opportunities and socio-political challenges, Nigerian youth continue to shape culture through music, fashion, art, skateboarding, raves, photography and community.”

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

Continuing and harping on the raison d’etre of the exhibition she said, “Young, Wild and Free exists to celebrate Nigerian youth while also creating a platform that supports and amplifies them.”