The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, has declared that the age-long rivalry between two foremost Yoruba monarchs—the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife—no longer exists, calling for unity and synergy among traditional rulers in Yorubaland.
Oba Alao made this known on Sunday during a visit to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, at his residence. The Olugbon, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, emphasized that the relationship among royal fathers must now be rooted in cooperation, peace, and progress.
“My purpose of coming here is to pay homage to our leader, the Alaafin of Oyo, because of our historical, cultural, and traditional bond,” he said.
“Olugbon, Aresa, Onikoyi – we see Alaafin as our affiliation. We’ve shared a strong connection since the days of the old Oyo Empire, and I’m happy to continue that relationship with the new Alaafin.”
He praised Oba Owoade’s character, describing him as intelligent, articulate, and deeply rooted in Yoruba values.
“In fact, we are blessed with this new Alaafin. He is very cerebral, a man of wisdom, and he chooses his words carefully. He has personality, and he is academically equipped,” Olugbon said.
He also commended Governor Seyi Makinde for the role he played in the selection of the new Alaafin, calling the process transparent and exceptional.
“I will say kudos to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde. He has done excellently. The selection of the new Alaafin was extraordinary, and I believe the government has done the right thing,” he stated.
On the way forward for the state’s traditional council, Oba Alao said the discussion with the Alaafin centered on progressive ideas that would benefit not only the Oyo State Government and traditional rulers but the entire Yoruba land.
“We discussed how Oyo State Obas’ Council will move forward. The Alaafin told me the governor is a wonderful and amiable person. As traditional rulers, we can’t operate in isolation—we must have synergy with the government, and we’re working on that,” he added.
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While appealing for calm among Yoruba monarchs in light of recent events surrounding the Alaafin’s coronation, Oba Alao said there was no room for rivalry among traditional stools.
“My words of encouragement to Yoruba Obas: everyone should be calm. I have heard a lot since the coronation, but I will tell you one thing—Alaafin will remain Alaafin, Ooni will remain Ooni of Ife. There is no dispute,” he said.
