“I don’t fight for supremacy, but historically, I am number one” — Alaafin

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has declared that he is the number one traditional ruler in Yorubaland, citing the historical significance and contributions of the old Oyo Empire to Yoruba civilisation.

The declaration was made during an interview with broadcaster Edmund Obilo on his programme, State Affairs, ValidViewNetwork reports .

THE DECLARATION

Oba Owoade was asked directly whether the Alaafin was the supreme king in Yorubaland.

His answer was unequivocal. “Historically, yes. If you want to go by history and the contribution of Oyo to Yoruba civilisation, then I would say that the Alaafin is number one,” he said .

He, however, dismissed suggestions that he was in competition with other prominent Yoruba monarchs, particularly the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, over traditional supremacy. “I don’t fight for supremacy or whatever with anybody,” Oba Owoade said .

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THE CONTEXT

The Alaafin’s remarks come amid a long-running dispute with the Ooni of Ife.

In August 2025, Oba Owoade gave the Ooni a 48-hour ultimatum to revoke the Okanlomo of Yorubaland chieftaincy title he conferred on Ibadan businessman Dotun Sanusi, arguing that the Ooni’s instrument of office restricts his authority to three council areas in Osun State.

The Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, dismissed the threat at the time, saying the Ooni would not “dignify the undignifiable with an official response” .

THE VISION FOR OYO

Oba Owoade spoke about his commitment to the Yoruba race, saying he regularly prays for the progress of the people.

“I believe that when Oyo succeeds, the Yoruba in their entirety get honoured. That’s my belief,” he said .

He expressed optimism about ongoing infrastructure projects in Oyo, particularly the proposed circular road and its planned dualisation, which he said would improve the city’s appearance and contribute to its development .

THE OYO EMPIRE DAY

The Alaafin announced that the forthcoming Oyo Empire Day would be a three-day celebration expected to attract about 40,000 people.

The event, he explained, was designed to bring together communities and people historically connected to the old Oyo Empire, irrespective of their present locations .

“The Oyo Empire comprises a number of people and cities, not just one. That’s why we are trying to make sure that we come together, reconnect to our roots, preserve our culture, deliberate on how to move forward and make a better future for our children together,” he said .

A Hall of Fame would be established as part of the celebration to recognise individuals and communities that had made significant contributions to Yoruba civilisation, Oyo Empire history, culture and heritage .

WHY IT MATTERS

The question of who is the preeminent traditional ruler in Yorubaland is one that has been debated for centuries.

The Ooni of Ife is widely regarded as the spiritual head of the Yoruba race, the descendant of Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba people.

The Alaafin of Oyo, however, is the heir to the political and military might of the Oyo Empire, which dominated much of Yorubaland and beyond at its peak.

Oba Owoade’s claim is not a new one. But his decision to assert it publicly, while simultaneously denying a rivalry with the Ooni, is a delicate balancing act. He is claiming supremacy while professing peace. He is asserting history while avoiding confrontation.

For the Yoruba people, the debate is not merely academic. It touches on identity, heritage, and the question of who speaks for the race.

The Alaafin has spoken. The Ooni has not responded. And the conversation continues. ValidViewNetwork reports.