Two of Yoruba land’s most influential monarchs, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade, have reconciled after a two-month rift, marking what observers described as a turning point in Yoruba history.
The peace meeting took place on Friday at Eko Hotel, Lagos, during the 90th birthday celebration of billionaire businessman, Kessington Adebutu, popularly known as Baba Ijebu.
Convened by Adebutu, the dialogue ended with the signing of a joint communiqué announcing the creation of the Joint Council for Yoruba Unity, a body dedicated to promoting peace, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic progress across Yoruba communities.
The statement, jointly signed by the Ooni and Alaafin, was witnessed by Adebutu and released by Kola Oyefeso, secretary of the communiqué drafting committee.
“Today marks a defining chapter in our shared history,” the communiqué read. “We reaffirm our dedication to harmony among all Yoruba sons and daughters and to upholding the sacred values of respect and brotherhood passed down by our ancestors.”
Traditional rulers, cultural custodians, and prominent Yoruba leaders attended the event, which focused on reconciliation, cooperation, and strengthening inter-kingdom relations.
Both monarchs offered prayers for peace and prosperity across Yorubaland, Nigeria, and the African continent.
Adebutu hailed the reconciliation as a milestone, saying it would “consolidate peace, unity, and development among the Yoruba people.”
The reconciliation follows a heated dispute in August after the Ooni conferred the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi. The Alaafin had demanded the title’s withdrawal, describing it as an “affront” and insisting that only he had the authority to confer titles covering the entire Yorubaland.
The Ooni’s camp dismissed the ultimatum as an “empty threat,” vowing not to dignify it with a response.
With Friday’s meeting, the two royal figures have now turned the page, pledging to work together for the peace and progress of their people.
