A growing rift between two prominent Yoruba traditional rulers has sparked fresh controversy, as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, openly dismissed a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, regarding a disputed chieftaincy title.
The Alaafin had demanded that the Ooni withdraw the recently conferred title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland from Ibadan-based businessman Chief Dotun Sanusi, branding the act a direct affront to his authority and the sanctity of the traditional institution.
However, in a sharp response, the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, described the ultimatum as an “empty threat” stemming from a “dead empire”, suggesting that the Ooni was unbothered by what he called a non-existent supremacy battle.
Posting on social media, Olafare stated:
“The Ooni is busy setting up businesses and creating jobs for youths across Yorubaland. They are busy fighting supremacy that does not exist. Dead empire.
Their 48-hour ultimatum will soon lapse. We are waiting. Dead Empire. Ooni plans for the groundbreaking and launching of the Ojaja Smart City in Ibadan, the biggest in Africa, someone is somewhere busy issuing 48-hour empty threats.
Where does this king (Ooni) have time for supremacy hullabaloo? Issuing 48-hour ultimatum over a Chieftaincy title that doesn’t even exist.”
The war of words follows months of underlying tension among Yoruba monarchs, with some observers suggesting that the issue reflects deeper disagreements over traditional leadership roles within the region.
Oba Owoade has yet to issue a further statement following the expiration of the deadline. Meanwhile, the Ooni appears to be forging ahead with his developmental agenda, including the proposed Ojaja Smart City, which he has said will transform Ibadan’s economic and infrastructural landscape.
Analysts have called for calm among Yoruba traditional leaders, warning that continued public discord may undermine the cultural integrity and unity of the region. Many traditional institutions are yet to formally comment on the matter.
