The Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Olugbon of Ile-Igbon, Oba Olushola Alao, has refuted claims of a power struggle between the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday after a closed-door meeting at the Alaafin’s palace in Oyo, Oba Alao clarified that both monarchs occupy unique and respected positions within the Yoruba traditional hierarchy and that there is no conflict between them.
“The Alaafin remains the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Ooni remains the Ooni of Ife. There is no issue of supremacy. People may speculate, but what truly matters is the unity among traditional rulers for the advancement of the Yoruba people,” he stated.
Oba Owoade was installed as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo on April 5, concluding a prolonged selection process following the death of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi in 2022.
Oba Alao described his visit as one of homage and solidarity, praising the new Alaafin as a monarch of wisdom, intellect, and profound cultural insight.
“Our ties are deeply rooted in history. Since the time of the Oyo Empire, the Olugbon, Aresa, and Olukoyi have always recognized the Alaafin as a pivotal figure in our traditional system,” he said.
The meeting between the monarchs reportedly focused on the development of Oyo State, the affairs of the traditional council, and fostering unity among the Yoruba.
Olugbon also stressed the importance of collaboration between traditional rulers and the government to preserve cultural heritage and promote progress.
“Traditional rulers cannot operate in isolation. Partnership with the government is essential to advancing the Oyo State Council of Obas and the state at large,” he concluded.
