The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has called on the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade Elewuetu I, to uphold and defend Yoruba cultural and traditional values, ensuring the tribe maintains its esteemed global reputation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday from Ibadan, Oyo State, ICIR President Fayemi Fakayode congratulated the monarch on his ascension as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, pledging the council’s full support in preserving the throne and core Yoruba traditions.
Fakayode expressed the council’s joy over Oba Owoade’s successful installation, stating, “Your emergence following the passing of the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi reflects Eledumare’s divine will to sustain Oyo’s role in advancing traditional Yoruba faith and customs.”
The ICIR leader urged the new Alaafin to “employ all necessary means to protect the integrity of Yoruba heritage,” acknowledging the late Oba Adeyemi’s efforts in defending the tradition.
He also issued a caution, advising the monarch to be wary of “a certain South-West traditional ruler who styles himself as ‘an emir,’ describing the individual as an outsider interfering with Yoruba kingship traditions.
Oba Owoade received his staff and instrument of office on January 13, 2025, at the Oyo State Governor’s Office in Ibadan. His official public presentation took place on April 5, 2025, at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, presided over by Governor Seyi Makinde.
