“It is never too late. Alaafin Owoade, you can still change to be royale in character, attitude and otherwise. Yoruba people are watching. History is beckoning. Tradition must be preserved, not bastardised.”
Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, was not in attendance at the inauguration of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs by His Excellency, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, last Thursday. The reason for his conspicuous absence best known to him.
This is a significant cultural and governmental event. The absence of the Alaafin of Oyo from such an important gathering is deeply troubling and widely viewed as a sign of arrogance and disregard for long-standing Yoruba customs.
The Throne of the Alaafin is not a platform for pride or personal display; it is a sacred institution built on humility, restraint, and deep respect for tradition. Any action or conduct by the monarch or those around him that ridicules or diminishes these values endangers the integrity of the throne itself.
Of more concern is the growing public perception that palace protocol and cultural boundaries are being violated. Yoruba tradition is clear: the throne must never be overshadowed or trivialised. If caution is not taken, these repeated missteps may erode public respect and invite serious consequences for the institution of the Alaafin in the fast future.
To tell you the fact, Oba Owoade, your attitude and actions so far, since you attained the throne of Alaafin of Oyo does not portray you as fit to occupy the seat as the chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
However, it is never too late. Alaafin Owoade, you can still change to be royale in character, attitude and otherwise. Yoruba people are watching. History is beckoning. Tradition must be preserved, not bastardised.
•Iye Erelu Oodua Onaneye writes from the US.
