The Protocols for Announcing the Death of Alaafin in the Past
Though Alaafin has stopped breathing, the Oyomesi must not announce it until they have conducted all necessary rituals and consulted the gods to ensure he arrived safely. But unfortunately, social media has really revealed what should be kept secret until traditional rites ought to have been carried out. Culturally and traditionally, the announcement of "the collapse of pillar" of Oyo (Oranmiyan ) will start with Alapini sending messages that Gbẹ̀du drum be beaten in all domains of his ṣenior brothers (6 other sons of Odùduwà - Alake, Oniketu, Òní Sábẹ́ etc). Upon the hearing of the drum, they are expected to stay indoor for 7 days, mourn their junior brother who by providence owns all the palaces and carry out some rituals. Upon completion of these rituals, they will Paroko to Arole (Ooni) . Arole will in turn perform "certain ritual rights" at Ilé Ifè by the staff of Oranmiyan who will in turn send emissary ( Paroko ) to Bashorun in Oyo to close t...