I’m Number One King In Yorubaland, Alaafin Declares

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has asserted that the Alaafin occupies the foremost position among traditional rulers in Yorubaland, citing the historical influence of the old Oyo Empire on Yoruba civilisation.

The monarch made the declaration during an interview with Edmund Obilo on State Affairs, in which he maintained that his position was based on historical records rather than on a desire to compete with other traditional rulers.

Asked whether he considered himself the supreme king in Yorubaland, Owoade said, “Historically, yes. If you want to go by history and the contribution of Oyo to Yoruba civilisation, then I would say that the Alaafin is number one.”

His comments come amid past disagreements over traditional hierarchy and supremacy among prominent Yoruba monarchs.

In 2025, the Alaafin was involved in a dispute with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, over the status and precedence of traditional rulers in Yorubaland.