The Okanlomo Odùduwà, Chief Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi, has distanced himself from the controversy trailing the conferment of the Okanlomo of Yorubaland title on Seyi Tinubu by the Alaafin of Oyo, calling instead for calm, unity and a renewed focus on Yorùbá cultural preservation and collective progress.
This position was made known in a press release issued by his Personal Media Aide, Williams Abiola, on behalf of the Office of the Okanlomo Odùduwà, and made available to journalists on Tuesday.
According to the statement, Sanusi does not intend to be drawn into debates or public disagreements over traditional titles or personalities, stressing that such engagements do not align with his values or responsibilities.
“Chief Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi is not inclined to join issues, debates, or controversies surrounding titles, personalities, or inter traditional discourse,” the statement read.
The release described the Okanlomo Odùduwà as a firm believer in purposeful leadership, cultural responsibility and meaningful impact, noting that his priority remains the preservation, promotion and advancement of Yorùbá culture, values and unity across generations and borders. It stated that his mandate goes beyond momentary public conversations and focuses on long term socio economic development of the Yorùbá people.
Sanusi also used the opportunity to acknowledge the leadership style of the Ooni of Ifẹ̀, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ọjájá II, whom he described as a symbol of stability and cohesion within Yorùbáland.
“His Imperial Majesty continues to demonstrate uncommon statesmanship by prioritising the stability, cohesion and collective progress of the Yorùbá race, rather than engaging in divisive narratives,” the statement said.
Reaffirming his philosophy, the Okanlomo Odùduwà emphasised values rooted in the Omoluabi ethos. “Dialogue should always take precedence over discord, impact over noise, and legacy over momentary relevance,” he said, adding that Yorùbá greatness can only be sustained through mutual respect among traditional institutions and collaborative efforts.
The statement further reiterated Sanusi’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, youth empowerment, diaspora reconnection, as well as economic and educational advancement within Yorùbáland. It added that he remains open to working with all well meaning stakeholders for the collective good of the people, regardless of titles or personal distinctions.
Calling for restraint, the Okanlomo Odùduwà urged stakeholders and the public to embrace calm reflection and cultural responsibility. “This is a time for unity, not contention,” the statement concluded.
