The traditional institution in Yorubaland has been stirred by recent remarks from the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, which have drawn stern reactions from fellow monarchs. Leading the call for restraint, the Onikoyi of Ikoyi-Ekiti, Oba Akinwande Ogundana, has urged the Osun State government and relevant traditional stakeholders to intervene and caution the Oluwo against what he described as “unpleasant and derogatory statements.”
Speaking through his principal secretary, Prince Fagbewesa Oluwole, Oba Ogundana expressed concern that the Oluwo’s conduct and public utterances, particularly those directed at the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, threaten the peace and unity among Yoruba royal institutions.
“The Ooni’s stool is the spiritual and cultural symbol of Yoruba heritage and must be accorded respect by all, especially by fellow royal fathers,” the Onikoyi stated.
He emphasized that such derogatory statements could erode the mutual respect and cooperation among traditional rulers, which have been the cornerstone of pre-colonial and post-independence Yoruba unity.
Highlighting Nigeria’s constitutional stance on religious freedom and respect for institutions, the Onikoyi reminded all traditional leaders of their duty to uphold values that promote peace and national cohesion. He further noted that Nigeria’s early constitutions guaranteed religious freedom and cultural autonomy—principles that must be upheld, not undermined.
“Our forebears coexisted peacefully despite differences in belief and background,” he said. “This legacy of tolerance must not be disrupted by divisive rhetoric.”
Oba Ogundana concluded with a prayer for continued peace, understanding, and prosperity across the Yoruba land and Nigeria at large.
Newspot Nigeria will continue to monitor the situation as efforts are made to de-escalate tensions and restore mutual respect among the revered Yoruba monarchs.
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