The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Owoade, has officially addressed recent speculations surrounding a purported supremacy battle with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. In a candid interview with BBC News Yoruba, the Alaafin firmly denied any feud, describing the rumors as baseless fabrications driven by sensationalist media and online bloggers seeking attention.
Oba Owoade emphasized the longstanding mutual respect between the two revered monarchs, stating, “There is no problem at all between us. It is the people that often want to make a fuss out of nothing. I relate with everybody, and I hold no grudge against anyone.”
In reaffirming the historical stature of the Oyo throne, the Alaafin referenced the British colonial administration’s formal recognition of the Alaafin as the superior head of the Yoruba nation. This acknowledgment, he noted, was rooted in the administrative structure and influence of the Oyo Empire during colonial rule, which positioned the Alaafin as the central authority in Yoruba affairs.
The Alaafin further called for unity among Yoruba traditional institutions, urging the public to disregard divisive narratives. “From time immemorial, people have always discussed among themselves that a fraught relationship exists between Alaafin and Ooni. But this is merely a perception, not reality,” he said.
This statement comes amid broader efforts by Yoruba leaders, including Aare Ona Kakanfo Iba Gani Adams, to mediate and preserve harmony among the region’s royal houses.