I’m the number one traditional ruler in Yorubaland - Alaafin of Oyo

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has described himself as the foremost traditional ruler in Yorubaland, citing the old Oyo Empire’s historical influence and contributions to Yoruba civilisation.

Speaking during an interview with broadcaster Edmund Obilo, the monarch said his position was rooted in history, while denying that he was competing with other Yoruba traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.

“Historically, yes. If you want to go by history and the contribution of Oyo to Yoruba civilisation, then I would say that the Alaafin is number one,” he said. “I don’t fight for supremacy or whatever with anybody.”

Oba Owoade said he regularly prayed for the progress of Yoruba people and believed that Oyo’s development would benefit the wider community. “I believe that when Oyo succeeds, the Yoruba in their entirety get honoured. That’s my belief,” he said.

His comments follow a dispute between the two traditional stools in August last year over the Okanlomo of Yorubaland title conferred on Ibadan businessman Dotun Sanusi by the Ooni. At the time, the Alaafin gave the Ooni 48 hours to revoke the title, arguing that the Ooni’s instrument of office limited his authority to three local government areas in Osun State.

Oba Owoade alleged that the conferment was unlawful and in contempt of an apex court ruling. He warned of unspecified consequences if the title was not withdrawn. The Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, subsequently said the monarch had instructed him not to issue an official response.

“My principal has directed me against issuing a press release on the empty threat. I beg to disappoint you, gentlemen of the press,” Olafare wrote on Facebook. “We cannot dignify the undignifiable with an official response. We leave the matter to be handled in the public court of opinion, as it is already being treated.”