The Alaafin of Oyo has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding Yoruba tradition and culture, insisting that his throne will not be drawn into supremacy disputes among monarchs.
In a statement released by the palace, the Alaafin stressed that his primary duty is the protection of the heritage and governance system rooted in the Oduduwa dynasty, both within Yorubaland and “across the empire.”
He dismissed ongoing supremacy controversies as “modern distractions” that add no value to Yoruba unity or cultural preservation. According to him, the integrity of the throne is better served by safeguarding age-long customs, rather than competing for dominance in what he described as needless contests.
This new stance follows widespread reactions to an earlier ultimatum reportedly issued by the Alaafin on matters of royal protocol. That ultimatum generated heated debate, with some traditional councils and socio-cultural groups urging him to withdraw it in the interest of peace and solidarity among Yoruba monarchs.
The palace’s clarification is therefore seen as an effort to douse tensions and re-emphasize the Alaafin’s role as a custodian of tradition, rather than a participant in status rivalries.
Observers say the statement could calm the growing rift among Yoruba royal houses, provided it is backed by further dialogue and cooperation among councils of obas and custodians of tradition.
