Fresh details have emerged regarding the ongoing discord between the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
HRM Oba Adeyinka Adeshina Akofe Obawale, the Olu-Oje of Ojenpetu, recently shared insights into the real reason behind Oluwo’s dissatisfaction, challenging the narrative that the Ooni has been working against him.
According to Oba Obawale, Oluwo’s frustration stems from his failed bid to become the Secretary of the South-West Traditional Rulers Council. He revealed that Oluwo had actively lobbied prominent Yoruba monarchs, including the Elegushi of Ikate and the Oniru of Iruland, seeking their support.
However, rather than being named the consensus candidate, he was subjected to a contest against the Oore of Otun-Ekiti, HRM Adekunle Adeayo Adeagbo. The election ended in a resounding defeat for Oluwo, with the Oore securing a 22-3 victory.
Adding to his disappointment, Oluwo’s former allies, Oba Elegushi and Oba Oniru, reportedly voted against him.
“It seems unfair to blame Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi - Ojaja II for his loss, considering OONI OF IFE gave him the opportunity to compete. Perhaps it’s time to reflect on his strategy and consider what he could’ve done differently,” Oba Obawale wrote.
He further emphasized Ooni Ogunwusi’s role as a unifying figure in Yoruba leadership, stating:
“Ooni Adeyeye, beyond royalty, the Olori Alade Gbogbo Ile Yoruba, is a father to all, always advocating for peace, unity, and the advancement of the Yoruba people and Nigeria at large. His role as a custodian of tradition and culture is evident in his tireless efforts to revive ancient traditions while embracing modernity to uplift his people.
“Ooni Ogunwusi is not just a king—he is a visionary, a peacemaker, and a shining light of the Yoruba civilization. His reign continues to inspire hope, pride, and progress. Kabiyesi o!”
Oba Obawale also criticized Oluwo’s approach to traditional leadership, stating:
“Kabiesi Abudulrasid Adewale Akanbi, you’re not representing your ancestors. You’re not a custodian of Yoruba culture; you are presenting yourself as an Islamic leader. So Ooni is not your mate.”
These revelations come amid Oluwo’s own allegations against the Ooni, in which he accused Ogunwusi of attempting to remove him from his throne despite their past friendship.
In a recently surfaced video, Oluwo claimed that he was instrumental in ensuring Ooni Ogunwusi’s ascension, revealing that he personally intervened to resolve a court case that could have delayed the coronation.
“As a friend, I reached out to Tunji Ogunwusi to assist him in becoming Ooni, but he underestimated me. He told me his main concern was a court case challenging his appointment, and I assured him he was already a king.
"I immediately called the person in charge, and the case was resolved on Friday—by Saturday, he was crowned Ooni. This was even before I became Oluwo.”, Oluwo said.
The monarch had further alleged that after ascending the throne, the Ooni turned against him, orchestrating his suspension from the Osun State Council of Obas and supporting moves to destabilize his authority in Iwoland.
“He is using some kings in my domain to undermine my leadership. Last month, in the presence of Governor Ademola Adeleke, he accused me of discouraging idol worship. He was also involved in using my former wife against me.”, Oluwo alleged.
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