The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade 1, has dispelled the rumour of a frosty supremacy tussle with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, saying that he holds him in high regard.

A statement signed by the Director of Media and Publicity at the Alaafin’s Palace, Bode Durojaiye, stated: “This latest series of manufactured debates is an unhelpful exercise that distracts and detracts from the truly important issues to which sons and daughters of Yorubaland should devote their energy and focus.

“At a time when our people face profound socio-economic and security challenges, it is incumbent on all of us – leaders, youths, traditional institutions, and citizens alike – to rise above pettiness and prioritise the work of uplifting our communities.

“The welfare of our people, the protection of life and property, the empowerment of our youth population, and the revitalisation of traditional values for development are the matters that truly deserve attention.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, remains unwavering in his commitment to these priorities. He believes in a future of collaborative progress and views synergy between traditional institutions as a vital pillar for stability and advancement in Yorubaland.

“The Alaafin holds the Ooni of Ife – and all custodians of Yoruba heritage – in high regard and is deeply committed to working hand-in-hand with them to chart a new path of unity, justice, and sustainable development across our land.”
BUT an Ibadan-born politician and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Niyi Akintola, has likened the Alaafin to a ‘god’ who has no rival among other traditional leaders.

Akintola, who spoke during a radio interview by Honour FM in Ibadan, said: “Alaafin is not a king that you look at. He has no rival. In the past, when the Alaafin is passing through other towns, the traditional ruler in those enclaves must not raise their head. They will face the grown and be hailing him, Kabiyesi.

“Alaafin is superior to any other traditional ruler in Yorubaland.

“The nomenclature of obaship itself in Yorubaland started with the Alaafin. So, when you’re talking about Obaship, Alaafin is at the apex. He has no rival.

“Of recent, one governor was stupid enough to stretch out his hand to greet Alaafin Adeyemi. How dare you stretch out to the Alaafin? Until the Kabiyesi himself stretches his hand to you, no Yoruba man born from a proper pedigree will stand before an Alaafin and stretch out his hand to him. It’s not done.”