Royal Clash: Ooni of Ife Dismisses Alaafin’s 48-Hour Ultimatum Over Chieftaincy Title
By Odekunle Doyin
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has dismissed a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, demanding the reversal of a controversial chieftaincy title.
The Alaafin had ordered the Ooni to revoke the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland recently bestowed on Ibadan-based businessman and hotelier, Chief Dotun Sanusi, owner of Ilaji Hotels and Resorts.
But in a response, the Ooni’s palace declared that there would be no withdrawal, describing the ultimatum as an “empty threat.”
Alaafin Declares Ooni’s Action “An Affront”
Oba Owoade, who became the 46th Alaafin of Oyo in January 2025, described the Ooni’s move as a direct challenge to his authority.
According to a statement by his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin insisted that only the throne of Oyo has the traditional right to confer titles covering the entire Yorubaland.
He further cited a Supreme Court judgment and the Ooni’s own instrument of office, which, he argued, restricts the Ooni’s powers to Ile-Ife alone.
“48 Hours My Foot” – Ooni’s Camp Fires Back
Reacting through his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the Ooni dismissed the threat, stressing that his principal would not issue any official press statement on the matter.
Olafare wrote on Facebook:
“My Principal has directed me against issuing a Press Release on the Empty Threat of the Alawada Babasala… 48 hours my foot!”
He maintained that the matter would be settled in the “public court of opinion,” not through threats or ultimatums.
Call For Unity Amid Royal Rift
While firing back at the Alaafin, the Ooni’s camp urged Nigerians and Yoruba people to focus on peace and unity rather than divisive narratives.
“Let’s rather promote what unites us instead of what can divide us,” Olafare added.
This developing feud between two of Yoruba land’s most powerful monarchs is already sparking debates across the Southwest, raising questions about traditional authority, power, and modern interpretations of Yoruba leadership.
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