The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has taken a strong swipe at the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, over the conferment of the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi.
In a statement by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described the Ooni’s action as a challenge to his authority, insisting that the exclusive right to confer titles that extend across Yorubaland rests solely with the Alaafin.
He accused the Ooni of consistently overstepping his bounds, acting beyond his traditional jurisdiction, and disregarding a Supreme Court ruling that affirmed Alaafin’s exclusive powers in such matters.
Alaafin on Ooni’s instrument of office
Oba Owoade stressed that the Ooni’s instrument of office confines his authority to the Oranmiyan Local Government, which has since been divided into Ife Central, Ife North, and Ife South.
He therefore demanded the revocation of the title within 48 hours, warning that failure to comply would attract consequences.
He recalled his unity tour across Yorubaland, where he emphasised that the peace and unity of the region remain the foundation for meaningful and sustainable development.
According to him, unity had always been the desire of the forefathers and should remain a priority for all Yoruba leaders.
