A recent incident involving the Oyotunji Yoruba Village in the United States has brought to light underlying tensions between two of Nigeria�s most prominent traditional rulers: the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
Established in 1970 in South Carolina, Oyotunji Village was founded by African Americans seeking to reconnect with their Yoruba heritage. The village, named �Oyotunji� meaning �Oyo rises again,� was inspired by the ancient Oyo Empire and has maintained cultural and spiritual ties to the Yoruba people. According to Olori Olamiji Pearse, the widow of the village�s founder, Oyotunji�s establishment was prophesied in the Odu Ifa, linking its origins directly to the Oyo lineage. She emphasized that the Alaafin of Oyo is regarded as the spiritual father of Oyotunji, and the village has historically received support from both the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife.
Tensions escalated following a viral video showing the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo remaining seated as the Ooni of Ife approached during a public event. This act was perceived by some as a sign of disrespect, sparking widespread debate and speculation about a possible rift between the two monarchs.�
Further fueling the controversy were allegations that the Alaafin ordered the assault of a visiting dignitary from Oyotunji Village. However, the Alaafin�s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, refuted these claims, stating that the video in question was misleading and that the Alaafin holds the Ooni in high regard.
In response to the circulating rumors, the Alaafin publicly denied any supremacy battle with the Ooni, emphasizing his commitment to unity and the progress of the Yoruba people. He clarified that the Oyotunji monarch�s visit was cordial and that no incident of assault occurred.
Similarly, the Ooni of Ife has not issued any statements indicating a dispute, and both monarchs have historically collaborated on initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Yoruba culture.�
While recent events have sparked discussions about the dynamics between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife, both leaders have expressed a commitment to unity and the advancement of Yoruba heritage. The Oyotunji Village, as a symbol of Yoruba cultural preservation in the diaspora, continues to maintain its ties to both traditional institutions, serving as a bridge between the Yoruba people in Nigeria and those abroad.
