A recent statement made by Oba Francis Olusola Alao, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, has ignited a heated debate among traditional rulers in Yorubaland. The controversy surrounds Olugbon’s comments on the Alaafin of Oyo’s role in the state, which some groups have interpreted as an attempt to undermine the authority of other monarchs.
The Incident On Thursday, September 11, 2025, Olugbon visited Oba(Sen) Abdul-Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, and praised his emergence as a blessing to the city and Nigeria. However, in a subsequent visit to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, Olugbon described the Alaafin as a leader not just for Oyo State alone but for everybody in the state.
The Itesiwaju Oyo Parapo Group (OPSG) has responded strongly to Olugbon’s comments, expressing disappointment and questioning the monarch’s understanding of the historical context and current roles of traditional rulers in the state. In a statement signed by the group’s chairman, Olusola Akinade, and secretary, Musiliu Akinola, they emphasized that every monarch has their own domain and boundaries.
The group noted that Olugbon’s statement seems to disregard the established roles and jurisdictions of traditional rulers in Yorubaland. They pointed out that the Alaafin of Oyo is the ruler of Oyo, while other monarchs, such as the Alake of Egbaland, have their own distinct domains. The OPSG questioned why Olugbon would suggest that the Alaafin has authority over all kings in Oyo State. Some critics have even gone further to speculate that perhaps Olugbon’s remarks were made under the influence of substances of Alcoholic Wine or Marijuana, given the uncharacteristic nature of his comments for a respected monarch.
The OPSG also reminded Olugbon of the historical context of the Oyo Empire’s collapse and the current roles of traditional rulers in the state. They noted that the Alaafin of Oyo is the permanent chairman in Oyo, as established by law, while Olugbon himself serves as the chairman of the Surulere Traditional Council, appointed by the government.
The OPSG urged Olugbon to be mindful of his words and actions, cautioning him against causing disunity among traditional rulers in Yorubaland. They emphasized the importance of respecting established boundaries and roles, and avoiding statements that could be perceived as provocative or divisive.
The debate sparked by Olugbon’s comments underscores the importance of clear communication and cooperation among traditional rulers in Yorubaland. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Olugbon and other stakeholders will address the concerns raised by the OPSG.
