The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, demanding the immediate revocation of the chieftaincy title “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” conferred on business tycoon Chief Dotun Sanusi.
In a strongly worded press statement made available to Apples Bite Magazine, the Alaafin described the Ooni’s action as a direct affront to his authority as the Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom and Superior Head of Yorubaland. He emphasised that only the Alaafin holds the exclusive right to bestow chieftaincy titles covering the entirety of Yorubaland.
The Alaafin referenced a Supreme Court judgment affirming his exclusive prerogative to confer such titles, warning that the Ooni’s move undermines both tradition and the rule of law.
“The instrument of office presented to Oba Ogunwusi during his coronation explicitly limits his jurisdiction to Ife Central, Ife North, and Ife South Local Governments,” the statement read. “For him to arrogate to himself the power to confer a title over all Yorubaland is not only illegal but a disrespect to the Alaafin’s supremacy.”
The Alaafin accused the Ooni of acting with impunity, stating:
“The Ooni behaves as if no authority can call him to order. His ‘above the law’ mentality has led him to trample on the rights of others, including disregarding the Supreme Court’s clear pronouncement on this matter.”
He warned that failure to withdraw the title within 48 hours would lead to unspecified consequences, declaring:
“This is a crucial test of whether anyone is truly above the law in Nigeria.”
The statement also recalled the Alaafin’s recent unity tour across Yorubaland, where he preached peace and collaboration among monarchs. However, it lamented that the Ooni may have mistaken such diplomacy for weakness.
“While the Alaafin has consistently advocated for unity, the Ooni’s actions suggest a deliberate attempt to provoke discord. Our forefathers built this land on respect for hierarchy, and we must not erode that legacy,” the statement added.
The Alaafin’s media office concluded with a firm demand:
“The so-called title must be revoked immediately. The Ooni should retrace his steps before this disregard for tradition escalates into a full-blown crisis.”
As of press time, the Ooni’s palace had yet to issue an official response.
Ayo Sogbuyi is a seasoned journalist with over 30 years of experience, he is a passionate advocate for press freedom and ethical reporting. Throughout his career, he has covered significant global events and championed the role of journalism in holding power to account.