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A CALL FOR UNITY: REFLECTIONS ON THE ALAAFIN AND OONI, CUSTODIANS OF YORUBA HERITAGE
By Onímòèro. Alejo Olatunde
For centuries, the Yoruba people have been blessed with a rich cultural heritage, anchored by revered traditional institutions. At the heart of this heritage stand two ancient thrones: the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo. Both are symbols of dignity, history, and the indomitable spirit of the Yoruba nation.
Historically, Ile-Ife is regarded as the spiritual cradle of the Yoruba race. Tradition holds that Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba people, first established his domain there. The Ooni, as custodian of this sacred heritage, is often seen as the spiritual father of the Yoruba. His role transcends politics; he embodies the deep cultural and religious roots of the people.
On the other hand, the Oyo Empire, which rose to prominence centuries later, gave the Yoruba a powerful political and military system that shaped West African history. The Alaafin was not just a king; he was an emperor, presiding over a vast and organized realm. The Oyo Mesi and other checks and balances developed in Oyo remain a landmark in African governance. The Alaafin’s throne thus symbolizes courage, authority, and the political sophistication of our ancestors. It is against this rich historical background that recent disagreements between the two thrones have drawn public attention. Reports of tension over titles, protocols, and viral videos have sparked debates across Yorubaland and beyond. While public discourse is healthy, we must tread carefully. These revered monarchs represent more than their individual persons; they embody centuries of tradition, pride, and identity.
History teaches us that the strength of the Yoruba has always been in unity. When Ife, Oyo, and other Yoruba kingdoms stood together, our culture flourished. When internal divisions arose, our enemies exploited them. It is therefore the duty of every Yoruba son and daughter, including our royal fathers, to rise above misunderstandings and focus on the greater good of our people.Both the Alaafin and the Ooni are pillars of Yoruba civilization one spiritual, the other political. There is no true competition between these roles; rather, they complement one another. The future of our culture depends on mutual respect between these stools, just as our ancestors intended.
As a proud Yoruba son and cultural enthusiast, I appeal for calm. Let us support our monarchs with prayers and wise counsel, not with gossip or divisive narratives. Let us remember that the eyes of the world are on us, and our children will inherit whatever legacy we build today. May the thrones of Oyo and Ife continue to stand in honor. May the spirits of our forebears guide our royal fathers toward peace and unity.
Yoruba ko ni baje o!
— Onímòèro Alejo Olatunde
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