The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has firmly stated that he is not engaged in any supremacy battle with any monarch, either within Yorubaland or anywhere in the world.
This clarification comes amid growing public speculation following a recent disagreement between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.
The dispute reportedly began after Oba Owoade criticised the Ooni’s decision to confer the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Oduwa on businessman Dotun Sanusi during an event in Ibadan.
In a statement released on Thursday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described himself as a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, committed to the welfare of his people and the preservation of cultural values.
“Why would the Alaafin get into any battle for supremacy with any Oba, either in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe?” the statement read.
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Durojaiye added that Alaafin Owoade has no interest in personal power struggles but remains devoted to a leadership style grounded in tradition, humility, and service. He described the monarch as a ruler who “would never compromise tradition, culture and the development of his people for a pot of porridge.”
The statement highlighted the deep historical roots of the Alaafin’s authority, tracing his lineage to Oranmiyan, son of Okanbi and grandson of Oduduwa, the mythical progenitor of the Yoruba people.
It further noted the prominent role Oyo played in the ancient Yoruba political structure, and referenced the British colonial administration’s recognition of the Alaafin as the legitimate head of the Yoruba nation during treaty negotiations.
“Oyo simply rose to prominence through wealth gained from trade and military skills… it was the largest West African empire, the most authoritative of all the early Yoruba principalities.”
The statement also described the Alaafin’s reign as one that balances royalty with modern governance, adding that his enduring popularity stems from prioritising the security, prosperity, and cultural integrity of his people.
The reported tension between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife stems from differing interpretations of traditional protocols and titles. While both monarchs hold significant cultural weight in Yorubaland, the Alaafin’s response appears focused on setting the record straight, rather than fuelling further confrontation.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the Alaafin’s spiritual and traditional authority, citing his initiation into the mysteries of Yoruba deities such as Ifa and Sango, and positioning him as a symbolic representative of the gods on earth.
