Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has stirred traditional waters by declaring his intention to be addressed as the “Alaafin of Iwo,” asserting the supremacy of the Alaafin title among Yoruba traditional leadership.
The monarch made this statement on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, while hosting the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, who paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Iwo, Osun State.
During the visit, Oba Akanbi expressed admiration for the age-long significance of the Alaafin title, stating that he saw no title superior to it in Yorubaland.
“Henceforth, I will also want to be called Alaafin of Iwo, and we will inform the government about it,” the Oluwo said.
He further explained the historical and spiritual relevance of the title, saying, “Alaafin will continue to be Alaafin because that is the title that Oramiyan adopted, and I will also adopt the saying.”
The Oluwo described the Alaafin title as “supreme to all other traditional titles in Yorubaland,” and emphasized its original link to Oduduwa descendants.
Commenting on the newly crowned Alaafin, Oba Akanbi commended his humility and exposure, expressing optimism that his reign would usher in peace and accelerated development for Oyo.
“With the humility and exposure of the new Alaafin, I believe Oyo will witness peace and unprecedented development,” he said, while expressing hope that the cordial relationship between Iwo and Oyo would continue to thrive.
In his remarks, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, who arrived with his wife, Abiwumi, and some chiefs, said the visit was a show of appreciation to Oluwo for attending his coronation in April.
“I came to see the Oluwo because he honoured me with his presence at my coronation,” Owoade stated. “Even before the ceremony, when my name was announced as Alaafin-elect, Oluwo called to congratulate me.”
Oba Owoade, who spoke in Yoruba, highlighted the historical bond between Oyo and Iwo and pledged to maintain the legacy of friendship shared by their predecessors.
“Iwo and Oyo have enjoyed a good relationship for years, even during the reign of my predecessor, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. I want that relationship to continue,” he added.
