The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has intervened in the rift between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, urging both monarchs to resolve their differences peacefully.
The dispute arose after the Ooni conferred the title of Okanlomo of Oodua on Ibadan-based businessman, Dotun Sanusi, during the unveiling of the 2geda social media and business networking platform held on August 16 at Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, Ibadan.
The development reportedly displeased the Alaafin, who issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding the reversal of the title. In response, Ooni’s spokesman, Moses Olafare, dismissed the ultimatum, noting that the matter had already been left “in the court of public opinion.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, Adams appealed for calm, warning that disunity among Yoruba monarchs could create room for external threats.
“I have reached out to some Yoruba elders to intervene in the growing tension between the two Imperial Majesties. The Ooni and the Alaafin are highly revered in Yorubaland and Africa, and we cannot afford discord between them,” he said.
He stressed the importance of unity at a time when Yorubaland faces security challenges, noting that the monarchs play critical roles in safeguarding the region.
Adams further described the two rulers as custodians of Yoruba heritage whose harmony is vital for the peace, unity, and stability of the region.
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