The Alaafin of Oyo and Superior Head of Yorubaland, Oba (Engr.) Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, received a heroic welcome in Oke-Ogun as he embarked on a two-day “thank you” visit to traditional rulers across the zone.
For two days, Tuesday and Wednesday, the entire northern axis of Oyo State stood still as residents trooped out in their thousands to receive the Paramount Ruler. Jubilant chants of “Iku Baba Yeye, Olori Oba Ile Yoruba, E Kabo” echoed across towns as the Alaafin’s entourage was ushered into palaces with pomp and pageantry.
The first point of call was the palace of the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III, where monarchs from Iseyin, Itesiwaju, and Kajola local governments under Zone I of the Oke-Ogun Traditional Council gathered in solidarity.
Speaking at the event, the Aseyin praised the Alaafin’s maturity, patience, and diplomacy in handling recent tensions with the Ooni of Ife, describing him as a “royal father with distinction.” Other monarchs in attendance pledged unwavering loyalty to the Alaafin and lauded his devotion to peace and unity in Yorubaland.
The visit continued at the palace of the Okeere of Saki, Oba (Dr.) Khalid Olabisi Oyedepo III, where the Alaafin was again received by an ecstatic crowd, including indigenes of Oyo resident in Saki.
In what residents described as a miracle, a torrential rainfall lasting nearly four hours followed shortly after the Alaafin’s arrival. The downpour, the first in about four weeks, was celebrated by locals as a divine blessing linked to the monarch’s presence. Remarkably, the rain came without flooding or destruction.
Traditional rulers from Zone II of Oke-Ogun—covering Saki West, Saki East, Orelope, and Irepo councils—later hosted the Alaafin, pledging total loyalty and support to his reign. The Okeere of Saki, in his remarks, highlighted the historic bond between Saki and Oyo, urging subjects to rally around the Alaafin in his pursuit of peace and progress.
In his response, Alaafin Owoade described traditional rulers as “formidable barricades” reinforcing peace and security across the nation. He emphasized the essence of unity, noting that history has shown that nations that stayed united, despite disagreements, achieved progress and prosperity.
“Staying united is essential because it helps us face challenges with courage,” the Alaafin declared. “As custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, I will never compromise the welfare, culture, or development of my people for a pot of porridge.”
He dismissed speculations of rivalry with the Ooni of Ife, insisting there was no supremacy battle between them. “History has been kind to the Alaafin. I do not need to get into any battle for supremacy with any Oba, in Yorubaland or beyond. Humility and royalty go hand in hand in meeting modern-day demands,” he said.
The Alaafin further described the Okeere of Saki as a “modern, education-driven monarch whose progressive leadership blends tradition with service.” He urged all Oke-Ogun monarchs to remain steadfast in their cooperation, stressing that “in unity lies strength.”
By Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo
