Alaafin calls for unity, cooperation during visits to monarchs in Oke Ogun

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has reiterated the vital role of traditional rulers as custodians of peace and security in Nigeria. He stated this during his two-day thank-you visit to traditional rulers in the Oke Ogun area of Oyo State, stressing that unity remains a powerful tool for overcoming national challenges.

Oba Owoade used the occasion to clarify that there is no supremacy tussle between him and the Ooni of Ife, noting that history has favoured the Alaafin’s stool enough to command respect without contest. “History has been kind to the Alaafin; I do not need to engage in any supremacy battle. The throne combines humility with royalty to meet modern-day demands,” he said.

Speaking further, the monarch underscored the importance of togetherness in nation-building, explaining that unity enables societies to withstand difficult times and advance toward collective prosperity. He cited global examples where countries remained strong despite disagreements, saying this proved the value of staying united.

The Alaafin described the Okeere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi Oyedepo III, as a progressive monarch blending tradition with modern leadership. He urged all Oke Ogun monarchs to deepen their cooperation, stressing that “in unity lies the strength.” His remarks were contained in a statement by his media aide, Bode Durojaiye.

In Iseyin, the Alaafin was received by the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III, alongside other monarchs from Iseyin, Itesiwaju, and Kajola. The rulers praised Oba Owoade’s patience and maturity, especially in handling sensitive issues between Yoruba royal stools. The Aseyin assured him of Zone I monarchs’ loyalty, describing him as a “royal father with distinction.”

The visit later continued to Saki, where the Alaafin was welcomed in a grand ceremony attended by thousands of residents. Shortly after the reception, the town experienced its first rainfall in four weeks, which lasted nearly four hours. Many residents hailed the monarch as a bringer of blessings, likening him to Sango, the Yoruba deity of thunder.

At Zone II of the Oke Ogun Council of Obas and Chiefs, comprising monarchs from Saki West, Saki East, Orelope, and Irepo, traditional rulers expressed gratitude to the Alaafin for his consistent attention to their domains. They pledged unflinching loyalty and called on him to remain focused in his quest to foster unity and progress across Yorubaland.

The Okeere of Saki, who chaired the Zone II meeting, recalled the deep historical ties between Oyo and Saki, describing the two as inseparable towns bound by tradition and destiny. He urged both the people of Oyo and Oke Ogun monarchs to stand firmly behind the Alaafin in order to enable him to deliver on his mandate as the superior head of Yorubaland.