OYO, Nigeria (Chatnewstv.com) — The Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade, has asserted his role as a custodian of Yoruba culture and traditions, dismissing suggestions of rivalry with other monarchs in Yorubaland.
His comments came after recent disagreements with the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, over the right to confer the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi.
In a statement issued Thursday by his media director, Bode Durojaiye, Owoade said his authority is grounded in Yoruba history and spiritual traditions that have endured for centuries.
“Why Alaafin does not need to get into any battle for supremacy with any Oba, either in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe?” the statement said. “He is a veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, and has always taken into consideration the safety and welfare of his subjects and will never compromise tradition, culture and development of his people for a pot of porridge.”
The monarch emphasized that his focus remains on unity, prosperity, and cultural advancement, not competition with fellow rulers.
Quoting Alexander Graham Bell, Owoade described leadership as “steady accretion” that requires perseverance, practicality, and vision.
“It is the man who carefully advances step by step, with his mind becoming wider and wider, and progressively be able to grasp any theme or situation … who is bound to succeed in the greatest degree,” the statement read.
Owoade pledged to continue defending Yoruba norms and values, ensuring that the cultural heritage of the Yoruba nation is preserved for future generations.
