(In Nigeria) Alaafin and Ooni Clash Over Controversial Chieftaincy Title

A major rift has erupted between two of Yoruba land’s foremost monarchs, the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife, following a dispute over a chieftaincy title. The Alaafin issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding that the Ooni revoke the “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” title recently conferred on businessman Dotun Sanusi.

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In response, the Ooni’s palace dismissed the ultimatum as baseless, intensifying the controversy and drawing widespread legal, cultural, and public reactions. Legal analysts note that the Alaafin’s claims carry little constitutional weight, while cultural groups caution that the feud risks undermining Yoruba heritage and unity.

Peace advocacy organizations have appealed to respected elders and custodians of tradition to mediate, stressing the need for dialogue and possible reforms in cultural leadership practices. As the standoff escalates, it continues to dominate public discourse, highlighting deeper questions of authority, legitimacy, and the future of Yoruba traditional institutions.

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