A prominent Ibadan Mogaji, Alhaji Abass Oloko, has warned the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, to refrain from denigrating Yoruba culture by calling himself an Emir.
The observation came amidst growing concerns about the preservation of traditional identities within the Yoruba community.
In a statement, Mogaji Oloko expressed his concerns regarding the implications of such titles, which he believes undermine the rich traditions of the Yoruba people.
He stated, “The title of Emir is not part of our cultural heritage and should not be adopted by any Yoruba monarch. It is essential that we preserve our identity and traditions.”
He observed that the Yoruba people have a rich and diverse heritage that should be celebrated rather than overshadowed by external influences.
“We must stand firm in our identity and not allow ourselves to be influenced by titles that do not reflect our true heritage.”
“When we embrace titles that do not resonate with our history, we risk diluting the essence of our culture. It is vital for our leaders to recognise the significance of their titles and the customs they represent,” he added.
Oloko however warned the monarch to stop disrupting the peaceful resolutions arrived at the committee on boundary dispute between Osun and Oyo State. He reminded the monarch that the boundary between Lagelu and Iwo ends at Odo Oba.
