Oyo Town, Nigeria – The Palace of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Abdul-Akeem Òwóadé I, has addressed concerns over reports of a curfew in Oyo Town, clarifying that no official restriction on movement has been imposed.
In a press release signed by Rotimi Osuntola, the Chief of Staff to the Alaafin, the palace addressed the concerns raised by residents regarding a previous announcement that implied restrictions on movement, as well as the possibility of arrests and detentions during the ongoing Orò Ipębí rites. The statement clarified that these terms were meant to be understood in a “loose traditional sense” and were not intended to serve as legally binding enforcement.
The Orò Ipębí rites, an essential part of the installation process for the Alaafin, are deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition. While it is customary to advise residents to be cautious during such rites, the palace clarified that the initial wording may have caused unnecessary alarm, especially during the ongoing Ramadan and Lenten seasons.
“His Imperial Majesty himself, being a practicing Muslim and a man of Iman (faith), will never toy with human rights and freedoms enshrined in the constitution,” the statement read. The release further affirmed that the Alaafin, a peace-loving ruler, does not wish to create disunity or disharmony among his subjects.
The palace has now officially withdrawn any suggestion of a curfew, urging residents to go about their daily activities without fear. However, indigenes are still advised to exercise caution in areas where the Orò rites are being performed.
Concluding the statement, Osuntola expressed regrets over any confusion caused by the earlier release and reassured the public of their safety. “We enjoin the good people of Oyo to go about their normal duties without fear of arrest, detention, or molestation,” the release stated.
The Orò Ipębí rites continue as part of the sacred traditions marking the ascension of Oba Abimbola Òwóadé I to the revered Alaafin throne.
Ilu Oyo a gbe wa o. Ile Yoruba yio maa te siwaju o!
