The Oyo State Government and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) have unveiled a detailed schedule of events for the coronation of Iku Baba Yeye, Alaafin Abimbola Owoade, spanning from March 31 to April 12, 2025.
The coronation festivities are divided into three phases: Pre-Coronation Events, the Coronation Ceremony, and Post-Coronation Activities.
Pre-Coronation Events (March 31 – April 4)
The celebration will begin on Monday, March 31, with a Cultural Carnival Parade at 7:30 AM, followed by an Opening Ceremony at Oba Adeyemi Mini Stadium, Ode Aremo, led by Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, and LOC Chairman, Dr. Kunle Ogunmola.
Other activities lined up include:
- Historic Tree Planting (April 1-3)
- Public Lecture & Colloquium at Atiba University (April 1)
- Coronation Quiz Competition at the Federal School of Surveying (April 2)
- Coronation Football Final (April 3)
- Oyo Cultural Heritage Day (April 4)
- Stage Play: “Aremo Aderonmu” by Gbemi Faleti at Ajayi Crowther University (April 4)
Main Coronation Ceremony (April 5)
The official installation of Oba Abimbola Owoade Elewu Etu I will take place on Saturday, April 5, at Olivet Baptist Height, with entertainment at various locations in Oyo.
Several venues have been designated for dignitaries and the public, including:
- OBHSO’s Field – Reserved for Governor Seyi Makinde, royal guests, and top officials.
- Ladigbolu Grammar School – Public viewing (Capacity: 5,000).
- Labamba Hotel – VIP venue (Capacity: 1,000).
- Other public viewing centers across Oyo.
Post-Coronation Events (April 6 – April 12)
The celebrations will continue with religious and traditional thanksgiving services:
- Christian Thanksgiving at St. Michael Anglican Cathedral (April 6)
- Traditional Orisa Thanksgiving at Esu Akesan Shrine (April 9)
- Special Jumat Prayer at Oja Central Mosque (April 11)
- Isese/Orisa Thanksgiving at Ijo Ifa Adimula, Oke Apo (April 12)
With excitement building across Oyo, the coronation of Alaafin Abimbola Owoade is expected to be a grand showcase of Yoruba culture, history, and royal heritage.
Long Live the Alaafin!
Long Live Oyo Kingdom!
