Following the passage of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, the head of the Oyo Mesi, the traditional Prime Minister known as Basorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Ayoola, has been tipped as regent of the ancient town, in line with traditions.
He will take over the affairs of the palace, pending the appointment of a new Alaafin.
Historically, the Basorun has the final say on the nomination of a new Alaafin and his Oyo Mesi team has the power of checks and balances over the Alaafin, the king.
Members of the Oyo Mesi were in those days of the Oyo Empire could request the king’s suicide by sending him a calabash of parrot’s eggs, over belligerent acts.
Basorun has the power to organise religious festivals in addition to becoming Commander in Chief of the Oyo Army which gave him tremendous independent religious authority, it was historically gathered.
Meanwhile, traditional rites of passage, which are not meant for public consumption have begun, to repose the soul of the late Alaafin, First News gathered.