Alaafin To Ooni: I Will Never Trade Culture For a Pot of Porridge
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has declared that he is not engaging in any contest for supremacy with other monarchs, whether within Yorubaland or across the globe.
This declaration was made public through a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, on Thursday.
Oba Owoade emphasised that, as a true custodian of Yoruba heritage, he consistently prioritises the safety and welfare of his people, always guided by their collective will and aspirations.
In the statement, Durojaiye stressed that the Alaafin remains unwavering in his commitment to tradition and progress, declaring that he would never sacrifice the values of his people “for a pot of porridge.”
He further noted that the Alaafin’s leadership is measured by tangible outcomes, stating that “prosperity, security and well-being of the people dictated his popularity both in the palace and in the empire at large.”
Durojaiye continued, “Why Alaafin does not need to get into any battle for supremacy with any Oba, either in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe? These immortal words of Alexander Graham Bell – ‘The most successful men in the end are those whose success is the result of steady accretion.’”
He reiterated, “He (Alaafin) is a veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, and has always taken into consideration the safety and welfare of his subjects and will never compromise tradition, culture and development of his people for a pot of porridge.
“The history has been so kind and friendly to Alaafin Owoade publicity since he ascended the throne of his forefathers, as he does not need to get into any battle for supremacy with any Oba, either in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe.”
The statement also highlighted the Alaafin’s unique blend of humility and royal authority, describing him as Kabiyesi (the unquestionable king), Iku Baba Yeye (he who commands death), Alashe (wielder of authority), and Ekeji Orisha (second-in-command to the gods).
It noted that he has been initiated into the sacred mysteries of Yoruba deities such as Ifa and Sango, serving as their earthly representative.
Durojaiye added, “At the hallowed ground of the Yoruba ancient shrine, as Owoade made a covenant with illustrious Yoruba ancestors that he would defend, protect and add glamour to the Yoruba norms and tradition.”
The statement traced the historical lineage of the Alaafin to Oranmiyan, grandson of Oduduwa, who founded the city of Oyo following a prolonged drought in Ile-Ife that led to mass migration.
“Oduduwa begot Okanbi, (an only child) and Okanbi begot Oranmiyan, among others, namely Ila-Orangun, Oni-Sabe, Olu-Popo, Ala-Ketu, Oba-Benin.”
Oyo’s rise to prominence, the statement explained, was driven by its wealth from trade and military prowess, making it the largest and most influential empire in West Africa.
“The British, as it was in their tradition, recognised lineage as meaningful supremacy and legitimacy, preferring to sign the Treaty of Cessation with the Alaafin as the Superior Head of the Yoruba Nation.”
On political matters, the Alaafin is said to be deeply invested in the sanctity of his office and the welfare of his people.
The statement noted that many customs and traditional practices in governance, religion, and economic life today have ancient roots, shaped by the collective wisdom of society.
“One of such societies is the ancient city of Oyo, reputed for cultural resources that are of rich non-material and material attributes and transmitted through generations.
Moreover, the precepts and concepts of Alaafin’s administration have continued to support and nurture the people’s ancient culture and sophisticated civilisation from time immemorial.”
It concluded by affirming that “the basic concept of government was monarchy with a rigid adherence to the monolithic Oduduwa dynasty and of the paternal line.”
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