Alaafin of Oyo Denies Supremacy Battle With Ooni, Reaffirms Commitment to Yoruba Tradition
Alaafin of Oyo Denies Supremacy Battle With Ooni, Reaffirms Commitment to Yoruba Tradition
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has dismissed speculations of a supremacy tussle with any monarch in Yorubaland or beyond, stressing that his reign is focused on the preservation of Yoruba culture, the welfare of his people, and the continuous development of his kingdom.
The monarch made this known in a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, on Thursday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The clarification follows recent public debates suggesting tension between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, over the conferment of the title “Okanlomo of Oduwa” on businessman Dotun Sanusi during the unveiling of an indigenous social media platform at Ilaji Hotel, Ibadan.
Alaafin’s Stand on Tradition and Leadership
According to the statement, Alaafin Owoade has never engaged in any supremacy battle with fellow monarchs, describing himself instead as a custodian of culture who places the safety, prosperity, and unity of his people above all else.
Durojaiye quoted the monarch as saying:
“The Alaafin does not need to enter into a supremacy contest with any Oba in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe. His reign is measured by the peace, progress, and cultural continuity that his subjects enjoy.”
The statement emphasised that the Alaafin governs through a system deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition, one that values perseverance, humility, and wisdom. Drawing from the words of Alexander Graham Bell, the Alaafin likened his leadership style to “steady accretion,” where progress is achieved step by step through focus and determination.
Historical Significance of the Alaafin Institution
The palace stressed that the Alaafin of Oyo remains an enduring symbol of Yoruba civilisation. Historically, the Oyo Empire rose to prominence as one of the most powerful pre-colonial states in West Africa, recognised for its wealth, trade, and military influence.
The statement noted that even the British colonial administration acknowledged the Alaafin as the legitimate head of the Yoruba nation, preferring to sign treaties with him as a recognised custodian of lineage and authority.
Furthermore, the Alaafin was described as a spiritual figure, inducted into the mysteries of revered Yoruba deities such as Ifa and Sango, making him the earthly representative of these ancestral powers. Titles associated with the Alaafin, such as Iku Baba Yeye (the one who commands death), Alashe (he who wields authority), and Ekeji Orisha (second-in-command to the gods), underscore his unique position in the Yoruba spiritual and political hierarchy.
Alaafin’s Covenant With Ancestors
The palace highlighted that upon his enthronement, Alaafin Owoade made a covenant at sacred Yoruba shrines to defend and protect Yoruba customs and traditions. This covenant, according to the statement, guides his decisions and reinforces his dedication to promoting Yoruba identity.
Tracing the royal lineage, the palace restated that Oyo’s historical prominence stems from its ancestral roots in Ile-Ife, the cradle of Yoruba civilisation. Oranmiyan, grandson of Oduduwa, was credited with founding the city of Oyo after the people of Ile-Ife faced prolonged drought. This marked the beginning of Oyo’s rise as a formidable political and cultural force.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The statement added that Alaafin Owoade combines humility with modern leadership values, striking a balance between preserving tradition and addressing contemporary challenges. His reign has been described as one that upholds Yoruba customs while also paying close attention to the socio-economic development of his kingdom.
“Customs and traditional practices in government, religion, and economic life are rooted in age-old experiences and wisdom,” the palace explained. “The Alaafin’s administration has continued to nurture these values, ensuring that Yoruba civilisation remains vibrant in the face of modern realities.”
Reassurance of Peace and Unity
The Alaafin, therefore, urged the public to disregard any insinuation of rivalry with the Ooni of Ife or any other traditional ruler, noting that such narratives are unnecessary distractions. Instead, he reaffirmed his commitment to unity among Yoruba monarchs, insisting that their collective role is to safeguard culture, promote development, and defend the dignity of the Yoruba people.
The statement concluded that the Alaafin’s reign is guided by loyalty to his ancestors, responsibility to his people, and devotion to the continued relevance of Yoruba civilisation in a changing world.
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