Alaafin vs Ooni: Monarchs Under Spell, Say Traditionalists

The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Osun State has suggested that the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, may be under a spiritual spell, following their recurring clashes.

The association’s president, Oluseyi Atanda, stated that rituals would be necessary to restore peace between the two foremost Yoruba monarchs.

Similarly, renowned poet and Ifa priest, Ifayemi Elebuibon, revealed that traditionalists had been offering sacrifices to ensure harmony in Yorubaland.

The latest dispute reignited after the Alaafin criticised the Ooni’s decision to confer the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi.

The Ooni had bestowed the title during the launch of “2geda,” an indigenous social media and business networking platform, at Ilaji Hotel in Ibadan on August 16.

In a statement by his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni to withdraw the title, warning of “consequences” if he failed to do so. He argued that only the Alaafin has the authority to confer titles covering all of Yorubaland.

Reacting, the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, said Oba Ogunwusi had chosen to disregard the threats, insisting the matter should be left “to the court of public opinion.”