Alaafin of Oyo rivalry with Ooni of Ife sparks concerns over unity in Yorubaland

Alaafin of Oyo rivalry with Ooni of Ife raises fears of disunity in the House of Oduduwa, with calls for Yoruba monarchs to unite on pressing issues

Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife are once again locked in a historic rivalry that is stirring unease within Yoruba traditional leadership, collectively known as the *House of Oduduwa.

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The renewed dispute, seen by many as a struggle for supremacy between two revered thrones, reflects deep-rooted tensions shaped by colonial manipulation and post-independence politics.

Historians note that the rivalry dates back to the colonial era when the British, under indirect rule, altered Yoruba kingship structures.

Some crowns were elevated while others were diminished, sowing divisions that persist to this day.

Political actors later deepened these cracks by exploiting traditional rulers for partisan advantage, with succession disputes and recognition often determined by patronage rather than cultural legitimacy.

Analysts caution that the current tensions risk overshadowing urgent socio-economic challenges in the Southwest such as insecurity, youth unemployment, poverty, and the collapse of local industries.

They stress that Yoruba monarchs, historically regarded as custodians of unity and protectors of the people, should instead rally to provide solutions.

There have been growing calls for royal councils to partner with state governments and grassroots groups to strengthen regional security initiatives like Amotekun, revive agro-industrial projects, and improve declining education standards.

“The crowns must serve as instruments of leadership and progress, not rivalry,” a commentator observed.

“The Yoruba nation cannot afford a divided House of Oduduwa at a time when insecurity and economic hardship are pressing issues.”

Also read: Makinde officially presents Oba Akeem Owoade as new Alaafin of Oyo

Stakeholders are urging the Alaafin, the Ooni, and other Yoruba traditional rulers to rise above rivalry and work toward a united front that defends cultural heritage while tackling modern governance and development challenges.