Oyo, March 16, 2025 – The Office of the Alaafin of Oyo has issued a formal directive emphasizing the correct manner in which the Paramount Ruler of Oyo should be addressed in official communications, media reports, and public engagements.
Debo Durijaye, the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, stated that proper name-calling holds significant cultural and historical weight, and any deviation from the official designation could lead to misrepresentation, distortion of royal heritage, and unintended consequences.
According to the statement, the Alaafin’s official title and name must be used exactly as follows:
HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY
IKU BABA YEYE
OBA ABIMBOLA AKEEM OWOADE I
THE ALAAFIN OF OYO
The announcement further clarifies that the numeral “I” following “OWOADE” is a Roman numeral one (I), not the English digit 1, and should be understood as such in all written and verbal references.
The public, including media professionals, government institutions, and traditional stakeholders, is urged to adhere strictly to this directive without adding prefixes or suffixes beyond what has been stated.
The palace underscores that the proper arrangement and pronunciation of names are not only a mark of respect but also help preserve the historical and cultural integrity of the Alaafin’s revered institution.
Signed:
Office of the Alaafin of Oyo
March 16, 2025
