Alaafin Of Oyo Dismisses Claims Of Rivalry With Ooni, Reaffirms Focus On People’s Welfare And Yoruba Culture

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has dismissed claims of a supremacy rivalry with other monarchs, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.

In a statement released Thursday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, in Ibadan, Oba Owoade said his focus is on the welfare, culture, and development of his people, not on competing with fellow traditional rulers.

The clarification follows reports of tension after the Ooni conferred the title “Okanlomo of Oduwa” on businessman Dotun Sanusi during the launch of the indigenous social media platform 2geda at Ilaji Hotel, Ibadan.

“The Alaafin does not need to engage in any battle for supremacy with any Oba, whether in Yorubaland or elsewhere,” the statement read. “He is a steadfast custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, always mindful of the safety and welfare of his subjects.”

The statement emphasized that Oba Owoade’s reign is measured by the prosperity and well-being of his people, and he remains committed to preserving the cultural heritage of Oyo and Yorubaland.

It also highlighted his dedication to protecting and promoting Yoruba values and his pledge to strengthen the cultural legacy of the throne, reaffirming that his administration will continue to prioritize unity, peace, and the collective progress of his subjects.