The Olowu of Kuta, Oba Adekunle Makama Oyelude, has made a passionate call for unity among Yoruba traditional rulers, urging the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, to forge a stronger bond with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for the collective development of Yoruba land.
Speaking during the Alaafin’s courtesy visit to his palace in Owu-Kuta recently, Oba Oyelude described the existing disconnection between the revered royal thrones of Oyo and Ife as a missed opportunity for cultural and developmental progress.
He stressed that the Yoruba people are watching and yearning for a new era of collaboration between their most influential monarchs.
“Kabiyesi, this generation of Yoruba wants to see the Alaafin and the Ooni walk side-by-side for the advancement of our land,” the Olowu declared.
“The two of you are natural torchbearers. You must never allow gossip or side talks to distract you from your shared responsibility.”
He encouraged the Alaafin and the Ooni to take a cue from the seamless rapport between northern traditional rulers such as the Sultan of Sokoto and the Shehu of Borno, whose unity, he said, has long inspired strength in northern Nigeria.
“Your visit today is not just ceremonial; it is a powerful signal,” Olowu noted.
“Let it be known that the Yoruba race is bigger than any palace politics. If the Alaafin and the Ooni are united, the people will naturally follow.”
In his response, Oba Owoade, who is barely a year into his reign as the new Alaafin, expressed appreciation for the Olowu’s candid advice, describing the interaction as refreshing and necessary.
“Kabiyesi Olowu has spoken the minds of many Yoruba sons and daughters. Our strength lies in unity,” Oba Owoade affirmed.
“We are here on a mission to strengthen our royal ties and ensure we collectively work for the growth of the Yoruba race.”
The Alaafin further revealed that he had already reached out to the Ooni of Ife and expressed his intention to visit him as part of his broader consultation tour.
“Ideally, my first stop should have been the Ooni’s Palace, but he is currently out of the country. Once he returns, I will go and see him,” he said.
“Let it be clear: there is no rift between us. What exists is the need for more collaboration, and I’m committed to making that happen.”
