Alaafin Ooni chieftaincy dispute erupts as Oba Akinleye says Alaafin’s authority ends in Oyo, defending Ooni’s Yorubaland title to Dotun Sanusi
Alaafin Ooni chieftaincy dispute has ignited a storm of controversy among Yoruba traditional rulers, following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, over a recent chieftaincy title conferment.
At the centre of the royal feud is the title of “Okanlomo of Yorubaland”, recently bestowed on Ibadan-based businessman Dotun Sanusi, popularly known as Ilaji, by the Ooni of Ife.
The Alaafin has demanded that the title be revoked, claiming it violates a Supreme Court ruling and his exclusive authority over titles covering Yorubaland.
“Ooni Sits on Our Father’s Throne” – Oba Akinleye Weighs In
Responding publicly via X (formerly Twitter), the Olukosi of Ilukosi-Ijesa, Oba Omotooyosi Bayo M. Akinleye, countered the Alaafin’s claim, stating that traditional rulers have no powers beyond their respective domains.
“Alaafin authority ends on Oyo land… No child is older than who father them. We are all children of Oduduwa, and Ooni is sitting on our father’s Throne,” he wrote.
Oba Akinleye’s powerful statement sparked a wave of online reactions, with some referencing a Supreme Court verdict that allegedly affirms the Alaafin’s rights over such matters.
In response, the monarch questioned the basis of such legal interpretations, asking:
“Does Supreme Court of Nigeria give Oyo power to lord over Ijesa? Based on what historical background?”
Earlier, the Alaafin had issued a formal warning through his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, asserting that only he holds the traditional authority to confer titles across the Yoruba nation.
He accused the Ooni of acting outside his jurisdiction and violating a Supreme Court judgment.
“The Ooni’s instrument of office limits his powers to Oranmiyan Local Government,” the Alaafin’s statement read. “Conferment of Yorubaland titles remains the exclusive preserve of the Alaafin.”
The monarch warned of “dire consequences” if the Ooni fails to revoke the title within the 48-hour window, cautioning that his peace efforts should not be mistaken for weakness.
The clash has triggered a flurry of commentary on social media, with some advising Oba Akinleye to remain neutral to avoid escalating the issue. However, the monarch responded that clarification is necessary for the “sake of the new generation of Yorubas.”
This unfolding royal rift has reignited longstanding questions about the power hierarchy among Yoruba monarchs, raising both historical and constitutional concerns about traditional authority in contemporary Nigeria.
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