The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, on Tuesday emphasised that the title of the Alaafin of Oyo is the most superior in Yoruba land, adding that no other traditional title is bigger than that of the Oyo monarch.
Oluwo’s declaration threw lights to the agelong rivalry among Yoruba Oba about seniority, especially between the stools of the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo. The rivalry has always come alive at any point, a new Alaafin or Ooni was installed. The coronation of the new Alaafin Owoade had recently exhumed the rivalry.
Oluwo made the remarks while receiving the Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, in his palace when the latter paid him a ‘thank you’ visit in his palace.
Oluwo said, “I don’t know any other title in Yorubaland that is superior to the Alaafin.
“Alaafin will continue to be Alaafin because that is the title that Oramiyan adopted and I will also adopt the saying.
“With humility and transparency from the Alaafin, Oyo will experience peace and unprecedented development, allowing the existing positive relationships between the towns to continue flourishing,” the Iwo monarch added.
Akanbi also expressed optimism that, with the humility and exposure of the Alaafin, Oyo would witness peace and unprecedented development under Oba Owoade, emphasising that the existing good relationship between the towns will continue to flourish.
Oba Akanbi expressed disapproval of some traditional rulers who are known for sponsoring negative reports about their fellow Obas. He encouraged those engaged in this behavior to change for the better, promoting the development of the Yoruba kingdom.
Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade, in his responce expressed optimism about the possibility of an even more cordial relationship between Oyo and Iwo.
He said: “I came to see Oluwo because he was at my coronation ceremony in April.
“Even when my name was mentioned as Alaafin-elect, Oluwo called to congratulate me.
“Iwo and Oyo have enjoyed a good relationship for many years, even during my predecessor’s reign, and I want that relationship to continue,” the Alaafin declared.
