The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has declared the title of Alaafin as the most superior traditional stool in Yorubaland, stating that no other chieftaincy title holds a higher status.
Oba Akanbi made the assertion on Tuesday while hosting the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade, in Iwo.
The monarch described the Alaafin title as the original and most revered seat of authority among the descendants of Oduduwa.
“I don’t know any other title in Yorubaland that is superior to the Alaafin. Alaafin will continue to be Alaafin because that is the title that Oramiyan adopted and I will also adopt the saying,” Oluwo said.
The monarch further stated his intention to henceforth be addressed as the “Alaafin of Iwo”, adding that formal communication would be made to the appropriate authorities.
“Henceforth, I will also want to be called Alaafin of Iwo and we will inform government about it,” he said.
Commending the humility and modern outlook of the new Alaafin, Oba Akanbi expressed optimism that the reign of Oba Owoade would usher in peace and development in Oyo and strengthen inter-town relations.
Oba Owoade, who was crowned as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo in April 2025, succeeded the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
He visited Iwo in company of his wife, Olori Abiwumi, and his chiefs to pay a courtesy visit to Oluwo and to express appreciation for his presence at the coronation ceremony.
“I came to see Oluwo because he was at my coronation ceremony in April. Even when my name was mentioned as Alaafin-elect, Oluwo called to congratulate me.
“It is also good to come around to pay him a courtesy visit,” the Alaafin stated.
Speaking further in Yoruba, Oba Owoade emphasized the historic cordiality between Oyo and Iwo, noting that his predecessor maintained close ties with the town. He pledged to uphold and strengthen that bond.
“Iwo and Oyo have been enjoying good relationship for years, even with my predecessor, and I want that relationship to continue,” he said.
The Alaafin also urged other traditional rulers in Iwo to support Oluwo and work with him with unity and sincerity for the progress of the town.
Oba Owoade’s visit to Iwo is among a series of courtesy engagements following his coronation, aimed at consolidating relationships with traditional rulers across Yorubaland.
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