Famous servant of God, Primate Elijah Babatunde Ayodele, has waded into the fresh supremacy crisis between the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and his Oyo kingdom counterpart, Oba Akeem Owoade.
The Alaafin of Oyo had issues a 48-hour deadline for the Ooni to reverse the chieftaincy title he conferred on a prominent Ibadan businessman Engr Dotun Sanusi, warning of ‘consequences’ should the Ooni ignore the ultimatum.
In a peace statement released on Tuesday morning, Primate Ayodele appealed for peace and harmony between the frontline monarchs, warning that it is only when the two rulers are at peace with one another can Yorubaland know peace.
Primate Ayodele’s statement:
“When the Lord speaks, it is for guidance, warning, and preservation. Some time ago, I released a prophetic caution concerning the revered thrones of the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo. I said clearly: “They must not allow misunderstanding or rivalry, because it will weaken the strength of Yoruba land.”
Now, the manifestation of that warning has begun. But even at this moment, God’s message remains a call to peace.
The Ooni and the Alaafin are not ordinary rulers. They are fathers, they are symbols, they are living representations of the glory of Yoruba history. Their bond is more than personal, it is spiritual and cultural, and when that bond is threatened, the pride of Yoruba land is threatened.
I appeal as a prophet of God: let this rift not be allowed to fester. Let there be humility, dialogue, and reconciliation. Both thrones are pillars, if they collapse into division, the younger generation will lose the sense of unity, and Yoruba culture will suffer dishonor.
I counsel both royal fathers: Guard against voices that seek to set you against one another. Remember that you are first custodians of a heritage larger than personal interest. Sit together, talk together, pray together, and let brotherhood prevail.
This is not the time for rivalry. Nigeria is facing storms on every side, economic hardship, insecurity, and political tension. Yoruba land must not add to this crisis by allowing her highest thrones to be divided. Instead, Yoruba land must show an example of unity, peace, and wisdom through her leaders.
Thus says the Lord: “If unity is pursued, blessing will flow; if division is allowed, confusion will rise.”
I pray for both the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, may God grant them the grace to forgive, to reconcile, and to stand as one voice for the betterment of their people. May their reigns bring honour and peace, not strife.
The Yoruba nation is greater when her fathers are united. Let unity reign.”
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