Alaafin, Ooni Clash Over Controversial Chieftaincy Title

Alaafin, Ooni Clash Over Controversial Chieftaincy Title

Tension is brewing in Yorubaland as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, faulted the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, over a new chieftaincy title. At the weekend, the Ooni honoured Ibadan businessman Dotun Sanusi with the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland during the launch of “2geda,” a social media and business networking platform, held at Ilaji Hotel.

The gesture, hailed by the Ooni as recognition of Sanusi’s cultural and economic contributions, has since sparked outrage in Oyo.

In a statement released on Monday by his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin said the Ooni exceeded his authority. He maintained that only the Alaafin has the traditional power to bestow titles covering the entire Yoruba nation.

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Calling for the immediate withdrawal of the title, Oba Owoade issued a 48-hour ultimatum and warned of consequences if the demand is ignored.

“The law is clear,” the Alaafin said. “No ruler has the mandate to confer a pan-Yoruba title except the Alaafin. The Ooni’s action undermines the Supreme Court ruling on this matter.”

He also argued that the Ooni’s jurisdiction is limited to Ife and its surrounding councils. According to him, stepping beyond that boundary is not only unlawful but also a threat to harmony among Yoruba monarchs.

The Alaafin urged traditional rulers to prioritise peace and unity, warning that rivalry would derail development. He added that his reconciliatory efforts should not be mistaken for weakness.

As of press time, attempts to reach the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, were unsuccessful. Calls and messages went unanswered.

 

 

 

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