Alaafin of Oyo Speaks on His Role and Upcoming Event

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has said he does not compete with other traditional rulers.

Mr Owoade made this known in an interview with Edmund Obilo on State Affairs. He stated that the Alaafin’s throne is the top position in Yorubaland.

His comments come after a disagreement with the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi, regarding the Okanlomo of Yorubaland title. The Ooni gave this title to businessman Dotun Sanusi.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Alaafin challenged the Ooni’s decision. He called it an abuse of authority and an insult to his institution and traditional customs.

When asked if there is a battle for traditional power with the Ooni of Ife, Mr Owoade said: "Alaafin is the supreme king in Yoruba land. Historically, yes I am. Alaafin is number one. Well, that’s a very good question anyway.

"I don’t fight for supremacy or whatever, you know, with anybody. But all I know is that historically, if you want to go by history and then the contribution of Yoruba civilization, then I would say that Alaafin is number one."

The Alaafin also chose not to comment on Governor Seyi Makinde’s appointment of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

This newspaper reported that the Oyo State House of Assembly removed the Alaafin from the permanent chairmanship of the council through the amended Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs Law, 2025.

At the inauguration of Oba Ladoja as chairman, which took place at the House of Chiefs Hall, State Secretariat, the Alaafin was not present. This marked the start of the new law.

When asked if he was upset about Oba Ladoja’s appointment, Mr Owoade chose not to answer.

"Well, that’s a question I would, I’m sorry, I wouldn’t want to answer anyway," he said.

The Alaafin also shared plans for the first Oyo Empire Day, set for December 17 to 19 in Oyo City, Oyo State.

He mentioned that the three-day event could attract up to 40,000 people.

"The Oyo Empire Day is a three-day event. We are expecting a large crowd. We’re expecting up to 40,000 people."