The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, faced criticism recently for praying without covering his head during a session for peace, long life, and mercy for himself while in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
In a video shared on social media, his uncovered head sparked mixed reactions, as it’s customary for Yoruba kings, especially in public, to keep their heads covered.
One of his followers, fabricsbyarinola, commented, “I thought a king must not uncover his head in public?”
Acube321 wrote, “Kabiesi oooo, sir you are not supposed to uncover your head. You can’t be the custodian of Yoruba culture and still follow Arab customs. This is intriguing. You are demeaning our culture, sir. This is not good, sir.”
However, some defended the Oluwo’s actions. Nadee_a_kitchen_treat wrote, “See my hometown king. Everybody is equal in the presence of Almighty Allah. Islam is beautiful. May Almighty Allah accept your worship.”
Fasasiwakeel also wrote, “I am moved emotionally by the way he was praising the King of Kings. May the Almighty Allah answer your prayers.”
In another video, the Oluwo was criticized for a specific prayer where he said people should not rest until they visit Iwo, just as millions of Muslims visit Makkah for pilgrimage.
Critics questioned what attractions Iwo had that would draw visitors from around the world.
