The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbọla (Owoade I), has dismissed claims of a superiority tussle with the Ooni of Ife, stating that his ascension to the throne is aimed at fostering peace, particularly among Yoruba monarchs, and not to promote hostility.
Oba Owoade made this clarification on Thursday while receiving a series of courtesy visits at his palace in Oyo.
Among the visitors were executive members of Ọmọ Yorùbá Àtàtà Socio-cultural Initiative (ỌYÀSI), a registered organization focused on promoting Yoruba culture and tradition on a global scale.
Responding to the concerns raised by representatives of the Baptist High School, Ṣaki Old Students’ Association, one of the groups that visited him, the Alaafin emphasized that he seeks unity among Yoruba kings.
“I want to be a friend to all Yoruba monarchs. I have no interest in any superiority battle with the Ooni of Ife. All such reports are fake news fabricated by bloggers,” the monarch said.
During the visit, Ọlawale Ajao, Chairman of ỌYÀSI, informed the Alaafin about the purpose of their visit. He said the team came to congratulate the monarch on his ascension and to introduce their initiative along with its flagship programmes.
He explained that ỌYÀSI is committed to the global promotion of Yoruba cultural values. One of its leading projects is the proposed World Headdress Day, aimed at securing international recognition and eventual endorsement by UNESCO.
Explaining the importance of the initiative, Ajao said, “While headdresses across different cultures serve as adornments, they also perform numerous other functions—spiritual, protective, social, and even medical.”
He added, “At every annual celebration of World Headdress Day, the hidden powers and significance of headdresses across various cultures will be showcased. This will not only preserve traditions but also boost the economy of Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.”
In his response, Oba Owoade described the initiative as commendable.
“The Yoruba are especially blessed with cultural heritages that surpass those of many other tribes. We need to showcase these treasures to the world,” he said.
“I am ready to support this initiative. Go ahead and define the specific role you want me to play to ensure its success,” he added.
Members of the ỌYÀSI delegation included Chief Saheed Alatise, Mr. Nurudeen Adeyẹmi Olorire, and Mrs. Riswat Ajao.
