Is Aqiqah Obligatory? Here's the Evidence, Best Timing, and Ruling on Aqiqah After Adulthood
Aqiqah is a sunnah muakkad act of worship according to the majority of scholars, as an expression of gratitude for the birth of a child. Some scholars say it's obligatory for those who can afford it. The evidence includes hadiths narrated by Malik and Ahmad.
The best time for aqiqah is on the seventh day after birth, but it can be delayed until the 14th or 21st day. The parents' responsibility still applies as long as the child hasn't reached puberty.
For those who didn't get an aqiqah until they were adults, some scholars recommend doing it yourself, while the Majelis Tarjih Muhammadiyah says it's not necessary because the recommendation lapses after puberty. There's no record of the Prophet or his companions doing it after they grew up.
https://mozaik.inilah.com/ibad