Alaafin Debunks Supremacy Battle Claims, Describes Viral Video as Malicious Falsehood

The Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo has strongly denied claims circulating in a viral video alleging that the monarch, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, is involved in a supremacy battle with the Ooni of Ife. The palace described the video, published by Awikonko TV, and uploaded to YouTube as a “malicious fabrication devoid of truth or logic.”

In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the palace refuted allegations that the Alaafin ordered an assault on a visiting monarch from Oyotunji Village in the United States. The video, according to the palace, falsely claims that the father of the Oyotunji monarch was beaten at the instruction of the Alaafin and later handed over to the police.

Durojaiye dismissed the claims as “deliberate misinformation,” and labelled the video’s anchor a “pathological liar,” accusing him of attempting to stir unnecessary conflict between Yoruba royal institutions.

“The visit from the Oyotunji monarch was purely ceremonial,” Durojaiye clarified. “As descendants of Oyo town, the Oyotunji community has always acknowledged its ancestral roots. They were warmly received during previous visits under the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, and nothing different occurred during the recent visit.”

The palace emphasized that the video footage presented does not align with the voice-over narration, calling into question the authenticity and intentions of the content creators.

Setting the record straight, Durojaiye reiterated that the Alaafin of Oyo is not in any supremacy contest with any other monarch. “Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I remains committed to the peaceful development of Oyo town and the cultural unity of the Yoruba race,” he said.

Describing the monarch as a leader of “strong ethical standards and divine purpose,” the statement noted that the Alaafin’s leadership is grounded in tradition, diplomacy, and a passion for public good.

The palace has urged members of the public to disregard the video and be wary of misleading content online, reaffirming its commitment to cultural preservation, peace, and unity across Yoruba land.

– Kunle Bakare