The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has denied allegations of a schism between himself and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
Oba Owoade’s recent visit to the Oluwo of Iwo caused extensive speculation on social media, with many viewing the act as a snub to the Ooni of Ife.
The rumours gathered steam after the Oluwo openly declared that the Alaafin is superior to all traditional rulers in Yorubaland, escalating speculation about tensions between the two powerful monarchs.
However, in a viral video circulating, the Alaafin addressed the situation, claiming that there was no disagreement between him and the Ooni. He added that a visit to the Ooni was originally part of his programme but had to be rescheduled.
“It is not something you hide. Before we made all preparations for this journey, one of the kings I intended to visit was the Ooni of Ife,” the monarch said in Yoruba.
“I informed my PA and Chief of Staff earlier to know when we would visit him, and his PAs were also contacted before we were informed he went to Kazakhstan.”
“People who do not know about this are the ones spreading rumours on the internet. I have no rift with the Ooni.
There was also a time when I was with the Soun (of Ogbomoso), and we both spoke with the Ooni over the phone.”
Oba Owoade advised the public to reject the rumours, calling them unfounded and promoted by mischief-makers.
