Alaafin Cites Oyo’s History to Claim Top Yoruba Throne, Denies Supremacy Battle

• The Alaafin of Oyo says history places his throne first among Yoruba monarchs, while denying that he is competing with other traditional rulers.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, has asserted that his throne holds the foremost historical position among Yoruba traditional institutions.

Speaking with broadcaster Edmund Obilo on State Affairs, the monarch based his position on the Oyo Empire’s contribution to Yoruba civilisation.

“Historically, the Alaafin is the number one king in Yorubaland,” he said.

Oba Owoade nevertheless denied engaging in a supremacy contest with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, or other monarchs.

When asked about the Olubadan’s appointment as chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, he declined to comment.

The Alaafin also supported constitutional roles for traditional rulers, arguing that their relationships with communities should inform government decisions.

He acknowledged that traditional authority had changed since the era of the Oyo Empire.

His comments represent his position on historical precedence, rather than an announcement of a new legal ranking among Yoruba monarchs.