The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has dismissed claims that he is engaged in a supremacy battle with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, or any other monarch within Yorubaland or beyond.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin clarified that his focus remains on the preservation of Yoruba culture, tradition, and the welfare of his people, not rivalry with fellow monarchs.
The clarification comes amid tension between the Alaafin and the Ooni following the Ooni’s conferment of the title Okanlomo of Oduwa on businessman Dotun Sanusi during the unveiling of an indigenous social media platform, 2geda, in Ibadan last weekend. The Alaafin had faulted the move, sparking talk of a fresh supremacy tussle between the two revered monarchs.
According to the statement, Oba Owoade “is a veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition who has always prioritized the safety and welfare of his subjects. He would never compromise tradition, culture, or the development of his people for personal gain.”
Quoting the words of Alexander Graham Bell on steady progress and perseverance, Durojaiye described the Alaafin as an “indomitable monarch with unequalled passion for the common good, whose leadership is judged by results—prosperity, security, and the well-being of his people.”
The statement also highlighted Oyo’s historic role as a center of Yoruba civilisation, recalling its prominence in trade, military strength, and cultural influence across West Africa. It noted that even colonial authorities recognized the Alaafin as the superior head of the Yoruba nation.
“Alaafin combines humility with royalty to meet modern-day demands,” the statement read. “Since ascending the throne, Oba Owoade has remained committed to defending and promoting Yoruba heritage while upholding the sanctity of his office.”
The palace reiterated that the Alaafin’s legitimacy stems from the ancient Oduduwa dynasty and his covenant with Yoruba ancestors to safeguard culture, tradition, and the welfare of his people.
