Traditionalists Warn: “Alaafin, Ooni May Be Under a Spell” Amid Growing Royal Rift

The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Osun State has voiced serious concerns over the intensifying rift between two of the most revered Yoruba monarchs — the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi — warning that the feud may not be natural, but spiritually influenced. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Speaking on the matter, the association’s president, Oluseyi Atanda, suggested that the ongoing tensions could be the result of a spell or spiritual manipulation by forces intent on destabilizing the Yoruba race.

“The two monarchs are traditional rulers and share the same ancestral lineage. This kind of disagreement doesn’t arise without spiritual interference. It could be the handiwork of those who fear Yoruba unity,” Atanda stated.

He further recommended that cleansing rituals may be necessary to resolve the crisis and called on aides and supporters of both royal houses to act with wisdom and restraint.

Renowned Ifa priest and cultural icon, Ifayemi Elebuibon, also weighed in, describing the situation as “disgraceful and unnecessary.” He emphasized that Yoruba kings should be champions of unity and development, not rivalry.

“The focus should be on the prosperity of the Yoruba people. This supremacy battle is beneath the dignity of our thrones. It’s being fueled by external influences, and our monarchs must rise above it,” Elebuibon urged.

The dispute was sparked by the Ooni’s recent conferment of the title “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” on Ibadan-based businessman Dotun Sanusi, during the launch of a Yoruba networking platform on August 16. The Alaafin reportedly objected, asserting that only he holds the authority to grant titles that span the entire Yoruba nation.

As tensions continue to rise, traditional leaders and cultural custodians are calling for immediate intervention to prevent a broader cultural and political fallout.