Alepata of Igboho visits Alaafin, pledges support

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Alepata of Igboholand and Paramount Ruler of Oorelope Local Government, Oba (Dr.) Joel Olalere Olawuwo, has declared his support for the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I.

The monarch made the commitment when he led his traditional council in the local government, along with the leadership of the Igboho community, to pay homage to the Alaafin on Thursday.

According to the Alepata, the visit was necessitated by the need to pay homage and familiarise themselves with the new Alaafin, given the historical relationship between Oyo-Igboho and Oyo.

He said: “I led the Oorelope Local Government Traditional Council and the entire Igboho community, under the aegis of Ifelodun Omo Igboho, to visit His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo.

“As the Paramount Ruler and Prescribed Authority in Oorelope Local Government, I recognise the importance of visiting the Alaafin to wish him success on the throne of his forebears.

“The visit was also important given the historical affinity between Igboho—often referred to as Oyo-Igboho—and Oyo. You know that apart from present-day Oyo, Igboho is the only seat of the Old Oyo Empire that still survives to date. Four Alaafins were buried in Igbo-Oba, Igboho.

“So, given that all-important bond between the two historical towns, we paid a visit to Kabiyesi Iku Baba Yeye to assure him of our support, cooperation, and well-wishes. We also had a robust discussion with him on matters pertaining to the development of our community.”