The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association in Osun State has expressed deep concern over the ongoing tension between the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, suggesting that both monarchs may be under a spiritual influence.

Oluseyi Atanda, president of the association, stated that the discord between the two revered Yoruba rulers may require ritual interventions to restore harmony. He emphasized the need for peace and warned that the dispute could spiral into a broader crisis among Yoruba traditional leaders.

Renowned Ifa priest and cultural figure, Ifayemi Elebuibon, also weighed in, revealing that sacrifices were being offered to promote peace in Yorubaland amid the feud.

The conflict was reignited when the Alaafin criticized the Ooni’s recent decision to confer the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi during an event in Ibadan. The event marked the launch of 2geda, a local social media and business networking platform, held at Ilaji Hotel.

Through a statement issued by his media aide, the Alaafin demanded that the title be withdrawn within 48 hours, asserting that only he possessed the traditional authority to grant titles that encompass the entire Yorubaland.

In response, a representative for the Ooni said the monarch had chosen not to engage in any back-and-forth, preferring to let the public form their own judgments.

Atanda, while speaking on the matter, expressed disappointment over the dispute, noting that such a public altercation between two leading custodians of Yoruba tradition was unfortunate. He added that their respective aides must act with restraint to avoid further escalation.

“The two kings are traditionalists and descendants of the same heritage,” Atanda said. “What then could be the cause of this conflict? It could be spiritual manipulation aimed at disuniting the Yoruba people. If it isn’t managed carefully, other monarchs may begin to take sides, deepening the division.”

He suggested that the cause of the disagreement lacked substance, stating that both monarchs were accomplished and well-respected.

Echoing similar concerns, Elebuibon condemned the feud as unnecessary and embarrassing. He urged both monarchs to focus on the progress of Yorubaland rather than engage in a contest for supremacy.

“We are witnessing efforts to make peace, but someone seems to be obstructing the process. This situation is disheartening. These are prominent monarchs representing Yoruba culture on the global stage. Public squabbles between them tarnish the image of the entire race,” he said.

He stressed that unity and development should be prioritized over titles and supremacy, especially at a time when external threats and insecurity are affecting Yoruba communities.

No New Legal Action Planned

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the Alaafin is not pursuing new legal proceedings against the Ooni regarding the disputed title. Instead, the monarch is reportedly planning to release an existing Supreme Court judgment that allegedly supports his exclusive authority to confer chieftaincy titles with pan-Yoruba coverage.

This marks the second notable disagreement between the two monarchs this year. In March, they clashed over the Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina, USA, following the death of its leader, Adejuyigbe Adefunmi. The Ooni had sent a delegation of monarchs to perform traditional rites, which the Alaafin opposed, asserting that the territory fell under Oyo’s jurisdiction.

A palace aide declined to comment on the next steps the Alaafin might take following the expiration of his 48-hour ultimatum. He simply noted that prominent Yoruba elders were involved in resolving the matter behind the scenes.

On the issue of the court ruling mentioned earlier, the aide said, “It will be made public in due time. We ask for patience.”

Another palace insider disclosed that the Alaafin is unlikely to initiate legal proceedings, as the matter is already addressed in an existing Supreme Court verdict. He emphasized that influential Yoruba elders have been appealing to the monarch to allow traditional mediation efforts to proceed.

“The issue is not resolved yet, but discussions are ongoing, and a decision will be made soon,” the source said.

Another insider added that the Alaafin had cautioned his aides against making inflammatory statements, as reconciliation efforts were underway.

“We are working quietly behind the scenes, and speaking publicly at this time could jeopardize those efforts,” he said.

A source close to the Ooni also confirmed that Oba Ogunwusi remains calm and has no intention of escalating the situation.

“They were the ones who gave the ultimatum, and they are the ones who must decide what comes next,” the source said.