Ooni, Alaafin end rift, reaffirm commitment to unity, progress in Yorubaland
A new era of peace and cooperation has dawned in Yorubaland as the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Owoade, officially ended their two-year rift.
The reconciliation took place on Friday in Lagos during a breakfast meeting held to commemorate the 90th birthday anniversary of billionaire businessman, Sir Dr. Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu.
The gathering, which brought together prominent Yoruba monarchs, cultural custodians, and leaders, was convened to promote peace, unity, and development across Yorubaland.
In a jointly signed communiqué issued after their deliberations, both monarchs reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering harmony among Yoruba sons and daughters, strengthening inter-kingdom cooperation, and upholding the sacred values of mutual respect and brotherhood handed down by their forebears.
They also resolved to sustain continuous dialogue between the thrones of Ife and Oyo, establish a Joint Council of Yoruba Unity, and encourage all Yoruba traditional rulers to emulate the renewed spirit of togetherness for the collective progress of the Yoruba nation.
The monarchs further urged Yoruba sons and daughters worldwide to embrace unity and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of their homeland, while offering prayers for lasting peace, prosperity, and divine guidance for Yorubaland, Nigeria, and the African continent.
The rift between the two monarchs reportedly began shortly after Oba Owoade’s ascension to the throne in 2023, following the passing of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. Differences over protocol and representation at traditional events had strained relations between the thrones until Friday’s reconciliation, which many described as a long-awaited and historic resolution.
The event has been hailed as a turning point in Yoruba history, symbolizing a renewed era of fraternity, understanding, and leadership unity between the revered seats of Oduduwa and Alaafin.
