The historical city of Ogbomoso will be abuzz on Thursday as the newly installed Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Laoye Orumogege III, makes his first official public appearance.
The event called the Ikeji ceremony, is a traditional rite of passage for the new Soun of Ogbomosoland. It marks his official installation as king and his return to the public after seven days of seclusion. During the ceremony, the new Soun will pray for the prosperity of his people, address them, and be available to meet with them.
Recall that Oba Afolabi who was installed as the new Soun of Ogbomosoland last Friday, is currently observing a period of seclusion.
At the Ikije ceremony, traditional drummers and hunters will perform a lively dance throughout the town, and later, they will provide entertainment at the palace.
According to reports, it has been gathered that both natives and residents of Ogbomoso will join the monarch’s procession from a specified location, making a circuit around the town. Following this, they will return to the palace for additional programs and entertainment.
Following the Ikeji ceremony, there will be a period of homage paid by groups and individuals from all walks of life. It has also been gathered that there will be special prayer sessions on Thursday and Friday, led by Christian and Muslim clerics, as well as traditionalists.