The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, has declared that no one can take the stool of the Alaafin of Oyo for granted.
He made the declaration while receiving the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, who paid him a courtesy visit on Monday at his palace in Orile-Igbon, in Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Olugbon emphasised that history, tradition and culture are sacrosanct, adding that the historical relationship between the Alaafin and the Olugbon dated back to over 700 years.
“Our history remains an indelible part of our lives. I have told people in many fora that the Alaafin of Oyo is a stool that transcends Oyo State; it spans the entire Yorubaland.
“It is a stool that is deeply revered. Even within Oyo State, it is regarded as the most powerful traditional stool, which we all recognise—and the state government is well aware of this.
“You will recall that during the coronation of the new Alaafin, the governor, in his address, reaffirmed this.
“He said he would ensure that the long-standing history and culture embodied by the Alaafin would remain sacrosanct and that he would always protect it. I quote him: ‘The stool goes beyond Oyo State and it cuts across the entire Yoruba land.’
“So, the Alaafin’s stool is not one anyone can take for granted. The history is there, and from the time of the Oyo Empire, it has been in existence.
“It is a stool that we all cherish, embrace, and love. That is why we are always around him—to protect this stool,” he said.
Oba Alao also revealed that the Oyo State Government is working toward convening the Council of Obas and Chiefs, adding that he believes the council will begin sitting before the end of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s tenure.
“I believe in Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde’s government. He is my boss and friend. We’ve discussed this issue even privately, and he means well. All he wants is for the Council of Obas to become active again, having been dormant for several years.
“You know, in the process of putting things together, there will be some hiccups. We’ve discussed those issues, and we’re working on them. I support whatever the government is doing.
“I believe that before the end of Governor Makinde’s tenure, the Council of Obas will resume sitting, and everyone will be happy. We will all coexist peacefully as traditional rulers,” Olugbon stated.
Olugbon added that he was highly elated and thankful to God for Alaafin’s visit, adding: “I must also express my gratitude to the Alaafin for deeming it fit to visit.
“This is his first visit to any palace since his coronation. That he chose to visit the Olugbon Palace is something I do not take for granted. I truly appreciate his visit.
“We’ve had this relationship for over 700 years—since the founding of Oyo Ile. We are both direct descendants of Oduduwa—Olugbon, Aresa, Onikoyi.
“We have had an alliance from time immemorial, and our relationship still exists. So, this bond is very mutual and strong. I deeply appreciate him, and I thank God for this wonderful visit,” Oba Alao said.
Speaking during the visit, Oba Owoade said he came to appreciate the Olugbon and the Surulere Traditional Council for their support since his ascension.
“Olugbon is a very good person. We have been connected since the days of Oyo Ile.
“He was the first to congratulate me when my name was announced as the new Alaafin. He also attended my coronation.
“We came to greet you and thank you for all your efforts… this visit is just to express our appreciation. Orile-Igbon will continue to prosper during your reign,” Alaafin said.
Oba Owoade was accompanied by his wife, Olori Abiwumi; the Sabiganna of Iganna, Oba Saliu Oyemonla Azeez; Olokaka of Okaka, Oba AbdulAzeez Ayoola; Ajoriwin of Irawo, Oba Musiliudeen Olalere; Eleyinpo of Ipapo, Oba Yekeen Adidas; Iba Saamu of Oyo, High Chief Lamidi Oyewale; and Agbaakin of Oyo, Asimiyu Atanda, among others.
