The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has publicly challenged the authority of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, over the conferment of the title Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi.
In a statement released Monday by his media director, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described the Ooni’s action as a “direct challenge” to what he claims is the Alaafin’s exclusive right to confer chieftaincy titles that apply across Yorubaland.
Oba Owoade, who was installed as the 46th Alaafin on April 5, 2025, argued that the Ooni’s traditional authority is limited to the Oranmiyan Local Government Area, now split into Ife Central, Ife North, and Ife South. He called for the revocation of the title within 48 hours, warning that failure to comply “would have consequences.”
“The conferment of a Yorubaland-wide chieftaincy title by the Ooni of Ife is not only a disregard for tradition but a direct affront to the Alaafin’s office,” the statement said. It also referenced a Supreme Court ruling that, according to the Alaafin’s camp, confirms his sole authority to bestow such titles across the Yoruba region.
The statement further criticized Oba Ogunwusi’s actions as overstepping traditional boundaries and acting “above the law,” insisting that his authority is confined to the three local government areas within Ife.
“This is a serious test of the rule of law and traditional order,” the statement continued. “The Alaafin is demanding the title conferred on Sanusi be withdrawn within 48 hours or there will be consequences.”
Despite the controversy, Alaafin Owoade has recently emphasized unity and peace across Yorubaland, calling them essential for the region’s development.
