By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanni, has declared the Alaafin of Oyo title as the most senior among all traditional titles in Yorubaland, asserting its deep historical and cultural roots among descendants of Oduduwa.
Oba Akanni made the statement on Tuesday while receiving the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, at his palace. He said, “I do not recognise any other traditional title in Yorubaland as being superior to that of the Alaafin. The Alaafin title is original to Oduduwa’s lineage and will always remain preeminent.”
The Oluwo added that the revered title, historically held by Oranmiyan, carries enduring significance. “From now on, I too would like to be addressed as the Alaafin of Iwo. We will inform the government accordingly,” he said.
Expressing delight at hosting the Alaafin in Iwo, Oba Akanni described the visit as historic and said he deeply valued the Alaafin institution. He praised Oba Owoade for his humility and cosmopolitan outlook, which he believed would usher in peace and remarkable progress for the people of Oyo.
Oba Owoade, accompanied by his wife, Abiwumi, and several chiefs, said his visit was to express gratitude to Oluwo for attending his coronation in April. “When I was announced as the Alaafin-elect, the Oluwo was among the first to call and congratulate me. I felt it was important to visit and thank him in person,” he said.
Speaking in Yoruba, the Alaafin stressed the longstanding cordial relations between the towns of Oyo and Iwo, expressing his intention to preserve and deepen those bonds. He noted that his predecessor, the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, had fostered strong ties with Iwo, and he intended to follow the same path.
“Oyo and Iwo have enjoyed a friendly relationship for many years. I want that relationship to continue and grow,” Oba Owoade said.