Seek true history from Osogbo elders, Oluwo’s aide tells Ataoja

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Chief Press Secretary to the Oluwo of Iwo, Alli Ibraheem, has advised the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun Laaroye III, to seek accurate historical knowledge from respected elders of Osogbo rather than distort the hierarchy of Yoruba traditional stools.

Reacting to a viral video in which the Ataoja allegedly made claims about traditional stool rankings, Ibraheem described the remarks as disappointing and misleading. He said the statements amounted to an overreach but emphasized they would not create friction between Iwo and Osogbo.

He explained that the clarification became necessary to defend the ancient Oluwo stool, which was referenced in the video, and to prevent the distortion of Yoruba history that could mislead future generations.

Ibraheem stated that Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo, is not in competition with any monarch, insisting that the Oluwo stool is a natural paramount rulership with a lineage directly from Oduduwa. He pointed out that the Ataoja himself acknowledged that his crown originated from Ipole and that the Ataoja was only elevated from Baale status in 1948.

“The Oluwo of Iwoland will not contend or compete with anyone,” Ibraheem said. “Seniority is not determined by chair. The Oluwo holds deep respect for Osogbo and its people, and in honour of their legacy, His Imperial Majesty has chosen not to engage in historical rivalry with the Ataoja, as the difference in heritage is clear.”

He emphasized that the Oluwo is one of the few Natural Paramount Rulers in Yorubaland—monarchs whose thrones have no history of coronet. “Oluwo is a viceroy to none and has installed over 35 kings. While more clarifications could be made, Oluwo respects the sons and daughters of Osogbo,” he added.

Ibraheem further advised the Ataoja to consult knowledgeable elders in Osogbo for authentic history, noting that distorting facts could harm cultural understanding. He stressed the importance of preserving Yoruba heritage for future generations.

He also referenced the historical role of Iwo warriors such as Balogun Ali-Iwo, Basorun Ogunmola, and Balogun Oderinlo in defending Osogbo during the Fulani invasion, and cited statements by the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, which he said affirmed the Oluwo’s authority.