The Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas, Oba Olushola Alao, who also holds the title of Olugbon of Ile-Igbon, has addressed concerns regarding a supposed rivalry between the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.
The monarch made these remarks during a media interaction on Sunday following a private meeting with Oba Owoade at the Alaafin’s palace in Oyo. Oba Alao made it clear that there is no tension or competition between the two prominent Yoruba rulers. Both, he explained, occupy highly respected and distinct positions in the Yoruba traditional structure, and any talk of a supremacy struggle is purely speculation.
“Alaafin will remain the Alaafin of Oyo, and Ooni will remain the Ooni of Ife. So there is no dispute. People may talk, but what matters is unity among traditional rulers for the progress of the Yoruba race,” Oba Alao said, putting to rest any doubts about their relationship.
Oba Owoade, who was officially installed as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo on April 5, ascended the throne after a thorough selection process following the death of the previous Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, in 2022. The coronation marked a significant moment in the history of the Oyo Empire, and Oba Alao, in his visit to the new monarch, emphasized the historical importance of the Alaafin title.
Oba Alao, during the meeting, further praised the new Alaafin for his wisdom and cultural awareness, calling him a leader with deep knowledge and a strong intellectual foundation. He also noted the long-standing ties between the Oyo and Ile-Ife kingdoms, saying that the Olugbon, Aresa, and Olukoyi have always recognized the central role of the Alaafin within the traditional leadership structure of the Yoruba people.
The two monarchs reportedly discussed important matters concerning the future of Oyo State, the activities of the state’s traditional council, and how the unity of the Yoruba people can be strengthened.
“There is no way traditional rulers can function effectively without partnering with the government. That collaboration is key to moving the Oyo State Council of Obas—and the state as a whole—forward,” Oba Alao concluded.
