Why Alaafin can’t be permanent chairman of Oyo Obas – Baale of Ekotedo

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Chief Taiye Ayorinde, the Baale of Ekotedo, has explained why the Alaafin of Oyo cannot hold a permanent position as chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas, debunking the idea of fixed traditional leadership within the state.

Speaking during an interview with 32FM in Ibadan, Chief Ayorinde traced the historical evolution of the Obas’ council chairmanship, stating that colonial influence once gave the impression that the Alaafin was the head of all traditional rulers in the region.

He referenced a rare historical document titled “Intelligence Report of Ibadan Town”, which he claimed exists in only two copies—one in his personal archive and the other at the National Archive. According to him, the document confirms that the Alaafin was not originally entitled to lead other Obas, a fact that reportedly caused outrage in Ibadan at the time.

“That was why Ibadan leaders resolved not to wage war against the Alaafin again,” he stated.

Chief Ayorinde further delved into the roots of traditional leadership, noting that the revered Yoruba deity, Sango, played a key role in early leadership appointments in Ibadan. “It was Sango who appointed Lagelu as Jaagun, and that was how the concept of chairmanship among Obas began,” he said, clarifying that the first leader in such a role was not a Mogaji (family head).

He emphasized that in the past, factors such as age and seniority determined who held leadership roles, and that such positions were rotational, not permanent.

On the ongoing debate about who should lead the Oyo Obas’ Council, Chief Ayorinde remarked, “The old order changeth, yielding place to new, and God fulfills Himself in many ways, lest one good custom should corrupt the world.”

He concluded by calling for a rotational and inclusive leadership structure in traditional councils, rooted in the historical foundations laid by Yoruba ancestors.