Yoruba Traditionalists Warn of Spell in Alaafin, Ooni Feud
The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Osun State has raised alarm over the growing feud between the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, cautioning that the clash could be the result of a spiritual spell.
President of the association, Oluseyi Atanda, said the tension between the two foremost Yoruba monarchs threatens wider unrest if not quickly addressed. He suggested that rituals may be needed to restore peace, warning that forces opposed to Yoruba unity might be fueling the discord.
“The two monarchs are traditionalists. We are from the same father. What could have caused the fight? What is happening could be a spell from some people who don’t want the Yoruba race to unite,” Atanda said. He urged the aides of both rulers to act with restraint in managing the crisis.
Renowned Ifa priest and poet, Ifayemi Elebuibon, also condemned the dispute, describing it as “needless and disgraceful.” He stressed that Yoruba monarchs should prioritize the progress of their people rather than engaging in supremacy battles.
The conflict stems from the Ooni’s conferment of the title Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi at an event in Ibadan on August 16. The Alaafin strongly opposed the action, insisting that only he holds the authority to bestow titles covering the entire Yoruba nation.
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