The Osun State Worshippers Association of Traditional Religion has expressed worry over the escalating feud between Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, and Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, warning that the feud could signal that they have been cast under a spell.”.
Association president Oluseyi Atanda cautioned that the current standoff between the two highly revered monarchs had the potential to mushroom into a larger crisis unless it was resolved urgently. He suggested the inclusion of traditional rituals to bring back peace, saying:
“The two kings are traditionalists. We share the same father. Why would we fight? What is happening could be a spell from some people who don’t want the Yoruba race to unite.”
Atanda also appealed to the two leaders’ aides to stay calm.
Described as “needless and disgraceful” by respected Ifa priest and poet, Ifayemi Elebuibon, he appealed to Yoruba rulers to prioritize the health and concord of their people.
The conflict is a result of the recent award of the title Okanlomo of Yorubaland to businessman Dotun Sanusi by the Ooni at the launch of an indigenous networking platform in Ibadan on August 16 a decision the Alaafin rejected, stating that only him has the right to confer titles across the entire Yoruba race.
