Empty Threat Of Dead Empire – Ooni Of Ife Replies Alaafin Of Oyo Over Ultimatum

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has dismissed what he described as an “empty threat” from the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, over a disputed chieftaincy title.

The Alaafin had reportedly issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni, demanding the withdrawal of the Okanlomo of Yorubaland title conferred on Ibadan-based businessman, Chief Dotun Sanusi. He claimed the decision was an affront to his authority and a violation of traditional protocols.

In a swift reaction, Ooni’s spokesman, Moses Olafare, played down the ultimatum, describing the Alaafin’s position as a relic of the past.

Posting on his social media page, Olafare wrote:

“The Ooni is busy setting up businesses and creating jobs for youths across Yorubaland, while they are busy fighting over supremacy that does not exist. Dead empire. Their 48-hour ultimatum will soon lapse. We are waiting.”

Olafare further noted that the monarch remains focused on development initiatives, particularly the forthcoming launch of the Ojaja Smart City in Ibadan, touted as the biggest of its kind in Africa.

“Where does this king (Ooni) have time for supremacy hullabaloo? Issuing a 48-hour ultimatum over a chieftaincy title that doesn’t even exist,” he added.

The public exchange has once again rekindled debates over the delicate hierarchy and historical rivalries within the Yoruba traditional institution, with observers warning against further escalation.