Oluwo Advised to Exercise Restraint, Emotional Intelligence Amid Osun Govt Controversy

Oluwo Advised to Exercise Restraint, Emotional Intelligence Amid Osun Govt Controversy

 

Public analyst, Lukman Raimi, urges monarch to embrace diplomacy, strengthen ties with government, prioritise peaceful coexistence and community development

 

A public analyst, Lukman Raimi, has advised the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba (Dr.) Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I, to exercise emotional intelligence, strategic caution and restraint in his public engagements amid the controversy surrounding a reported cautionary letter issued to the monarch by the Osun State Government.

 

Raimi, who offered the advice in a public commentary, said the traditional ruler should avoid unnecessary verbal confrontations and adopt a more diplomatic approach in addressing issues capable of generating tension between the palace, the government and members of the public.

 

The analyst noted that the reported letter from the Osun State Government had generated mixed reactions, with some people welcoming the government’s intervention while others, particularly supporters of the monarch, expressed disagreement.

 

However, he said he belonged to neither camp, explaining that his intervention was intended to offer constructive advice to the monarch rather than take sides in the controversy.

 

According to him, understanding the relationship between traditional institutions and government authorities is essential to preserving the dignity and influence of the throne.

 

Raimi pointed out that state governments exercise statutory responsibilities over the appointment, recognition, regulation and remuneration of traditional rulers, subject to applicable laws.

 

He therefore urged the Oluwo to recognise the limits of traditional authority while appreciating the constitutional and statutory responsibilities of government.

 

Religious Convictions and Royal Restraint

 

Addressing the religious and cultural dimensions of the controversy, the analyst acknowledged that differences surrounding religion and cultural identity had generated tensions in parts of Yorubaland, including Iwo.

 

He maintained that the Oluwo had every fundamental right to affirm and practise his Islamic faith, stressing that the monarch should not be expected to apologise for his religious convictions.

 

Raimi also acknowledged that some critics of the monarch’s Islamic beliefs had allegedly resorted to provocative comments and derogatory remarks.

 

Nevertheless, he argued that such provocations should not compel a traditional ruler to engage in prolonged public exchanges or respond to every criticism.

 

Describing himself as a proud Muslim, Raimi said he admired the Oluwo’s commitment to Islam but believed that frequent public responses, the use of street slang and prolonged verbal exchanges were inconsistent with Islamic etiquette and the dignity expected of a traditional ruler.

 

He urged the monarch to demonstrate that religious commitment, cultural appreciation and peaceful coexistence could exist side by side.

 

‘A King Must Not Fight Like a Servant’

 

To reinforce his argument, Raimi invoked two Yoruba expressions which, according to him, capture the expectations of royal conduct.

 

He quoted the saying, “Oba kì í jagun bí ẹrú,” meaning that a king does not fight battles like a servant.

 

He also cited the expression, “Oluwo kò ṣe wò!” to emphasise the importance and dignity of the Oluwo’s throne.

 

The analyst argued that kingship comes with responsibilities that require wisdom, composure and the ability to rise above personal disagreements.

 

He further referenced prominent traditional rulers, including the Sultan of Sokoto, the Emir of Ilorin, the Emir of Kano, the Ooni of Ife, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Oba of Benin, as examples of monarchs whose public engagements, in his view, demonstrate the importance of measured communication.

 

According to Raimi, prominent traditional rulers often face criticism and insults but generally refrain from responding to every provocation because of the dignity associated with their offices.

 

He maintained that the Oluwo could protect his royal image and strengthen his influence by adopting a similar approach to public communication.

 

Analyst Recommends Meeting With Osun Governor

 

Beyond urging restraint, Raimi recommended that the Oluwo consider paying courtesy visits to the Osun State Governor and the Commissioner responsible for Chieftaincy Affairs.

 

He described such visits as important diplomatic gestures that could demonstrate institutional respect and a willingness to pursue constructive engagement.

 

According to him, direct engagement with government officials could help strengthen relationships, clarify possible misunderstandings, address misleading information and create opportunities for meaningful collaboration.

 

He suggested that rather than allowing disagreements to escalate through public exchanges, the palace should explore diplomatic channels capable of producing lasting understanding between the traditional institution and the state government.

 

Calls for Greater Focus on Community Development

 

Raimi also urged the monarch to devote greater attention to initiatives that would improve the welfare and development of people in Iwoland.

 

He specifically highlighted peaceful coexistence, charitable interventions, children’s mentorship, youth empowerment, support for widows and sustainable community development as areas deserving greater attention from the palace.

 

He advised the Oluwo to reposition himself as an ambassador of Islam, a proponent of the positive aspects of Yoruba culture, a father to all and a servant leader.

 

The analyst said the monarch had an opportunity to demonstrate that Islamic convictions, respect for Yoruba heritage and peaceful coexistence were not mutually exclusive.

 

He added that sustained commitment to these ideals would strengthen the Oluwo’s public image, enhance his royal legacy and elevate his standing beyond temporary controversies.

 

‘Royalty Must Be Defended With Wisdom’

 

Concluding his intervention, Raimi prayed for Allah’s guidance, patience and wisdom for the Oluwo, expressing hope that the monarch would enjoy a peaceful reign.

 

He also expressed confidence in the monarch’s personal appeal, ending his message with a humorous compliment about his handsome appearance.

 

“Long live the Oluwo! Long live Iwoland!” he declared.

 

His intervention comes amid continuing public discussions about the relationship between traditional institutions, religious identity and government authority in Osun State, with the analyst urging the Oluwo to embrace diplomacy and community-focused leadership as a means of strengthening his reign.

 

 

Oluwo Advised to Exercise Restraint, Emotional Intelligence Amid Osun Govt Controversy