The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has denied reports of a supremacy tussle with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, or with any other Yoruba monarch.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, the palace clarified that the Alaafin’s remarks on the Ooni’s recent chieftaincy conferment were not driven by rivalry but by a commitment to safeguarding Yoruba culture and values.

“The Alaafin is a veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition. He has always placed the safety and welfare of his people above all else, and will never compromise tradition, culture, or the development of his people for temporary gain. Since ascending the throne of his forefathers, Alaafin Owoade has had no need to engage in any battle of supremacy with any Oba in Yorubaland or elsewhere,” the statement read.

The palace described the Alaafin as a ruler who embodies humility and royalty, and as one who holds sacred titles such as Kabiyesi (“the unquestionable one”), Iku Baba Yeye (“he who commands death”), Alashe (“he who wields authority”), and Ekeji Orisha (“second-in-command to the gods”). It further emphasized his deep spiritual induction into the mysteries of Yoruba deities such as Ifa and Sango, positioning him as their representative on earth.

Reaffirming the Alaafin’s historical role, the statement recalled that Oyo rose to prominence as the most powerful Yoruba empire, built on trade and military prowess. It added that the British colonial authorities recognized the Alaafin’s lineage as the legitimate symbol of Yoruba supremacy, signing the Treaty of Cessation with him as the “Superior Head of the Yoruba Nation.”

The palace stressed that the Alaafin’s concern is not rivalry but the sanctity of his position and the preservation of Yoruba tradition:

“Customs and practices in governance, religion, and economic life today trace their roots to principles shaped by ancient Yoruba civilisation. Oyo remains a beacon of this heritage, nurturing and transmitting cultural values across generations. The Alaafin’s administration continues to protect and enrich these traditions, upholding the paternal Oduduwa dynasty as the foundation of Yoruba monarchy.”