The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Owoade I, has been affirmed as a guardian of Yoruba customs, whose actions are guided by longstanding oaths, rituals, and historical obligations rather than personal sentiment or disputes.
This clarification was issued in an open letter by Dr. Babajide Agunbiade, Atóbaáse of Yorubaland and CEO of Alpha Energy, in response to public reactions following a recent inter-faith gathering in Oyo.
Dr. Agunbiade explained that claims suggesting the Alaafin “snubbed” or showed disrespect to other traditional rulers during the event are based on a misunderstanding of sacred customs associated with the Oyo throne. He emphasized that the Alaafin’s conduct reflects strict adherence to centuries-old rites, not arrogance or rivalry.
The letter highlighted that the Alaafin is bound by sacred observances, including traditional seven-day rituals, which impose specific restrictions on actions such as standing or certain forms of greeting. These rituals are mandatory for every Alaafin, regardless of circumstances or the identities of others present.
Dr. Agunbiade stressed that the Alaafin did not act disrespectfully toward any monarch, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and cautioned against interpreting traditional protocols as discourtesy. He warned that reducing such deeply rooted customs to social media narratives or popular opinion undermines the heritage and authority of Yoruba institutions.
The chieftain further described the Alaafin as the living symbol of the Oyo Empire’s legacy, noting that the empire historically unified Yoruba territories and influenced governance, culture, diplomacy, and identity across modern-day Nigeria and Benin.
“Respect for the Alaafin is respect for history and tradition,” the letter stated. “It is not about asserting dominance over other thrones but acknowledging the distinct roles within a shared cultural heritage.”
Dr. Agunbiade concluded by urging understanding and careful consideration, emphasizing that adherence to tradition should not be mistaken for hostility, and silence should not be interpreted as contempt.
