Ooni most supreme traditional ruler in Yorubaland — Elebuibon

Ooni most supreme traditional ruler in Yorubaland — Elebuibon

Renowned Ifa priest, Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, has spoken on rift between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade.

According to him,  the Ooni remains the most supreme traditional ruler in Yorubaland.

Speaking in an interview with Vanguard, Elebuibon said the current tussle between the Ooni and Alaafin had no basis in Yoruba tradition, stressing that colonial interference and modern politics were responsible for the division.

“The Ooni is the father of all Yoruba monarchs, including the Alaafin. Traditionally, the relationship is like that of a father and son. The supremacy battle never existed until the advent of colonialism and later, political manipulation,” he said.

He said while the Oyo Empire rose to prominence under Oranmiyan in the 16th and 17th centuries, it did not diminish the Ooni’s position as the spiritual head of the Yoruba race.

“Oranmiyan’s exploits outgrew those of his father, but that never made him superior. The origin of the Yoruba race is Ile-Ife, not Oyo,” Elebuibon declared.

Ge said the British colonial authorities deliberately created rivalries among Yoruba monarchs to strengthen their control, citing the signing of treaties with the Alaafin while still recognizing the Ooni’s spiritual authority.

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On the modern dimension of the dispute, Elebuibon said, “This tussle is more of politics than history. Successive Oonis and Alaafins, especially Oba Sijuwade Olubuse and Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, fought bitter battles that nearly divided the Yoruba Council of Obas. Today, loyalists close to the thrones are fueling the current disagreements.”

He appealed to Oba Ogunwusi and the current Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to put unity above rivalry for the progress of Yorubaland.

“It is not in the interest of our people globally for this supremacy conflict to continue. The Yoruba nation’s development depends on their cooperation,” he warned.

The Ifa priest also urged groups such as the Oyo Legacy to avoid inflaming tensions, insisting that no Oba should contest supremacy with the Ooni.

On resolving the dispute, Elebuibon pointed to Ifa divination as a spiritual tool. “Ifa has always provided solutions in times of crisis. The Ooni will soon embark on the Olojo Festival, where he will pray for peace in Yorubaland. I am confident this issue will be part of his prayers.”

He concluded by reminding both monarchs of their responsibility: “They went through their rites properly; they know the right thing to do. Those instigating conflict around them must allow peace to reign.”

 

Ooni most supreme traditional ruler in Yorubaland — Elebuibon