I Am Not Competing With Any Oba – Alaafin of Oyo Speaks Amid Reported Tensions With Ooni of Ife

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has stated that he is not engaged in any supremacy battle with fellow Yoruba monarchs, asserting his position as a “veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition.”

This declaration comes amid growing speculation of tension between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, following the Ooni’s recent conferment of the Okanlomo of Oduwa chieftaincy title on businessman Dotun Sanusi at the launch of the indigenous social media platform, 2geda, in Ibadan.

In a statement released on Thursday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin emphasized that he remains focused on the welfare, culture, and development of his people, and has no interest in rivalry.

“The Alaafin does not need to engage in any battle for supremacy with any Oba, whether in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe,” the statement said.

Quoting Alexander Graham Bell, the statement described Oba Owoade as a monarch whose steady rise and leadership reflect wisdom, humility, and purpose.

“He is a veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition and will never compromise that heritage for personal gain,” Durojaiye added.

The statement went further to highlight the historical and cultural authority of the Alaafin, tracing the royal lineage back to Oranmiyan, grandson of Oduduwa, and the founding of Oyo after prolonged drought led to mass migration from Ile-Ife.

“Oyo rose to prominence through trade and military skill. It became the largest and most authoritative Yoruba empire. Even the British colonial authorities acknowledged the Alaafin as the superior head of the Yoruba nation,” it noted.

The Alaafin’s court also reiterated its commitment to preserving ancient customs while adapting to modern governance and social development.

“Kabiyesi combines royalty with humility to meet modern-day demands. He was initiated into the mysteries of deities like Ifa and Sango and represents these divine forces on earth,” the statement said.

In conclusion, the palace emphasized that Oba Owoade’s leadership is deeply rooted in legacy, continuity, and service, and that the Alaafin remains committed to promoting Yoruba unity and identity without engaging in divisive traditional politics.