The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, have ended their two-month-long rift following a historic reconciliation during the 90th birthday celebration of Lagos business mogul, Kensington Adebutu, popularly known as ‘Baba Ijebu’.
The meeting, which took place on Friday in Lagos, was marked by cordial discussions and mutual commitment to promoting Yoruba unity. After the talks, both monarchs jointly announced the creation of a council dedicated to fostering peace, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic growth across the Southwest region.
In a communique jointly signed by the Ooni and Alaafin and witnessed by Adebutu, the monarchs said: “Today marks a defining chapter in our shared history. We reaffirm our dedication to promoting harmony among all Yoruba sons and daughters, and upholding the sacred values of mutual respect and brotherhood handed down by our ancestors.”
The communiqué, issued by Kola Oyefeso, secretary of the drafting committee, emphasized the council’s role in uniting the Yoruba people and providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among leaders in the region.
The rift reportedly began when the Ooni of Ife conferred the title of “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” on businessman Dotun Sanusi. The Alaafin of Oyo viewed the action as an affront, asserting that he alone has the authority to bestow titles across Yorubaland, and demanded the title be revoked within 48 hours.
The disagreement attracted widespread attention, with many fearing it could deepen divisions among Yoruba leaders. Adebutu, leveraging his birthday event, mediated between the two monarchs, encouraging dialogue and compromise. His intervention proved successful, leading to the reconciliation and establishment of the joint council.
The successful mediation has not only restored the cordial relationship between the two monarchs but also strengthened the message of peace and collaboration among traditional rulers in Nigeria.
