Why I’m Yoruba’s Number One Monarch — Alaafin

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, has asserted that the Alaafin stool remains the preeminent traditional institution in Yorubaland, grounding his claim in the expansive historical influence and civilizational contributions of the old Oyo Empire.

Speaking during an interview on State Affairs with broadcaster Edmund Obilo, the monarch clarified that while his historical standing places him at the top of the traditional hierarchy, he has no interest in engaging in public contests over supremacy.

“Alaafin is the supreme king in Yoruba land. Historically, yes I am. Alaafin is number one,” Owoade stated.

“I don’t fight for supremacy or whatever with anybody. But all I know is that historically, if you want to go by history and then the contribution of Yoruba civilisation, then I would say that Alaafin is number one.”

The monarch’s remarks arrive against the backdrop of longstanding institutional friction with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, concerning royal jurisdiction and the authority to bestow pan-Yoruba chieftaincy titles.

In August 2025, a controversy erupted when the Alaafin issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding that the Ooni rescind the conferment of the “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” title on Ibadan businessman Dotun Sanusi, maintaining that only the Alaafin holds the prerogative to grant titles spanning all of Yorubaland.

Addressing historical perspectives on the Oyo Empire, Oba Owoade rejected the narrative that the ancient empire suffered a total collapse, arguing instead that its geopolitical reach underwent a natural structural decline.

“I wouldn’t say the Oyo Empire fell. The Oyo Empire started in the 14th century… and it reigned until around the 18th century. I wouldn’t say it fell, but in a way, the power had dwindled. It declined,” the monarch explained.

To preserve cultural heritage and unite descendant populations across Nigeria and the diaspora, the paramount ruler announced the establishment of “Oyo Empire Day” to celebrate the shared roots of communities trace back to the empire.

However, Oba Owoade declined to comment on Governor Seyi Makinde’s appointment of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as chairman of the reconstituted Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The restructuring followed the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs Law amendment of 2025, which dissolved the Alaafin stool’s exclusive permanent chairmanship over the state’s traditional council.