The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, has declared that God has chosen a befitting Alaafin for the Yoruba race, describing the newly-installed monarch, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, as cerebral, wise, and deeply rooted in history and tradition.
Oba Alao said this on Sunday while speaking with journalists after paying a courtesy visit to the Alaafin of Oyo at his residence.
The Olugbon, who is the Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, emphasized that there is no supremacy battle between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife, saying both stools remain distinct and respected within Yoruba traditional hierarchy.
“My words of encouragement to Yoruba Obas: everybody should be calm. I have heard a lot after the coronation, but I will tell you one thing — Alaafin will remain Alaafin, Ooni will remain Ooni of Ife, there is no dispute,” he said.
He noted that his visit was to pay homage to the new Alaafin and strengthen the longstanding bond between their royal houses, which dates back to the Oyo Empire.
“We are happy to be with the new Alaafin of Oyo. He is very cerebral, a man of wisdom who chooses his words carefully. He has a great personality and is equipped academically. God Almighty has chosen a befitting Alaafin for the Yoruba land,” Olugbon said.
Oba Alao who was accompanied by his wife Olori Olusola Alao also praised Governor Seyi Makinde for the transparent and extraordinary process that led to the emergence of the new Alaafin, describing the governor as a leader with a deep sense of responsibility and vision.
“I will say kudos to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde. He is a wonderful and successful governor. The selection process of the Alaafin was extraordinary and excellently done. We believe the government has done the right thing,” he added.
The Olugbon revealed that discussions with the Alaafin revolved around fostering unity among traditional rulers, strengthening the Oyo State Council of Obas, and promoting harmony with the state government.
“There is no way we, as traditional rulers, can do anything on our own. We must have a synergy with the state government, and we are doing that,” he stated.
He called on all Yoruba traditional rulers to maintain peace and focus on unity and progress, emphasizing that the new Alaafin’s emergence marks the beginning of a new era for the Yoruba nation
