Alaafin Of Oyo’s Curfew Sparks Debate

Prince Akeem Owoade and Sunday Igboho Defend Traditional Restrictions Amid Controversy

The Alaafin-elect of Oyo, Prince Akeem Owoade, and Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemi, widely known as Sunday Igboho, have strongly condemned a recent demand by the Yoruba Muslims for Freedom (YMF) calling for the arrest of the new monarch over the imposition of a 21-day curfew in Oyo town.

Both leaders dismissed the statement by YMF as baseless, labeling it as an affront to the Yoruba cultural heritage and a disregard for long-standing traditions.

Alaafin’s Traditional Seclusion and Curfew Enforcement

Following his return from Canada, Prince Owoade entered a traditional 21-day seclusion, a crucial step in his journey to being crowned as the Alaafin of Oyo on April 5, 2025. In line with the Oyo monarchical customs, a temporary curfew was enforced in the town until the rites were completed.

However, the Yoruba Muslims for Freedom, through their spokesperson Lateef Akinwale, criticized the move, alleging that the imposition of a curfew by the monarch exceeded his constitutional authority. They argued that such a directive should come solely from the state government and warned that it set a dangerous precedent of creating a “state within a state.”

Alaafin’s Response to the Muslim Group’s Allegations

Through his media director, Bode Durojaye, the Alaafin-elect dismissed the YMF’s call for his arrest as misleading and inflammatory.

Durojaye clarified that the 21-day curfew was a customary practice during the period of Oro Ipebi, an essential part of the Alaafin’s installation rites. He criticized the YMF for spreading misinformation, emphasizing that the group was either misinformed or acting with ulterior motives.

“The restriction of movement during traditional rites is a well-established custom in Oyo’s monarchical system. It is unfortunate that certain groups are attempting to misrepresent this cultural practice for their own agenda,” Durojaye stated.

Curfew Adjusted to Accommodate Ramadan Observances

Recognizing the significance of the holy month of Ramadan, the Alaafin-elect adjusted the curfew hours from the initial 8 PM to 6 PM restriction to a revised schedule of 10 PM to 6 AM. This decision was made to allow Muslims to observe key prayers, including the early morning Fajr and the evening Taraweeh.

Durojaye questioned the basis for the YMF’s opposition, noting that Yoruba customary laws, while not explicitly outlined in Nigeria’s legal system, have historically coexisted with national laws.

“The claim that this curfew violates constitutional rights is unfounded. The curfew does not target any religious group and has been observed by Muslims, Christians, and traditional worshippers alike without conflict,” he added.

Sunday Igboho Condemns Disrespect Towards Yoruba Monarchy

Reacting to the controversy, Sunday Igboho, speaking through his spokesperson Yomi Koiki, condemned the call for the Alaafin’s arrest, labeling it as an attack on Yoruba tradition.

“The Yoruba people have always held their traditional rulers in high regard. Any attempt to discredit the Alaafin is an insult to our history and identity,” Igboho declared.

He further warned against divisive narratives that attempt to portray Yoruba traditional rulers as “idol worshippers” unworthy of respect. Such rhetoric, he said, was dangerous and could incite unnecessary religious tensions within Yoruba society.

“It is unacceptable for any group to reject our Obas simply because of religious differences. Yoruba land thrives on unity and mutual respect, not religious superiority,” he asserted.

The Role of the Alaafin in Protecting His People

Contrary to claims by the YMF that only the civil government has the power to impose curfews, Igboho highlighted that Yoruba monarchs have historically played a crucial role in safeguarding their people during times of uncertainty.

“The Alaafin’s decision was made to ensure stability in Oyo town, not to undermine the government. If our kings lose their influence, who will protect Yoruba land?” he questioned.

He further cautioned those opposing the Alaafin, stating, “No one will be allowed to insult or challenge our traditional rulers without consequences. Our cultural institutions must be safeguarded against external influences.”

Security Concerns Amid Alleged Disruptions

Meanwhile, concerned indigenes of Oyo town have urged the state government to bolster security measures to prevent disruptions to the enthronement process.

According to a local association, there are reports of a faction attempting to obstruct the traditional rites due to their preferred candidate not being selected as the new Alaafin.

“Unconfirmed intelligence suggests that a religiously motivated group, having failed to influence the selection process, is now attempting to disrupt the proceedings,” a representative from the Association of Oyo Indigenes warned.

They further appealed to the Oyo State Government to deploy security operatives, particularly during the early morning hours, to prevent any potential unrest.

“If critics claim the curfew is for sinister purposes, then state security presence will debunk such claims while ensuring the monarch’s safety,” the group added.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the Alaafin’s curfew has sparked heated debates on the intersection of tradition, governance, and religious sentiments. While some see it as a necessary part of Yoruba heritage, others argue that it infringes on individual rights. Nevertheless, the Oyo monarchy remains firm in upholding its traditions while making reasonable adjustments for religious observances.