Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan-designate, has accused their supporters of being responsible for the ongoing disputes between Yoruba monarchs.
He claimed that by starting contentious historical narratives, supporters are frequently to blame for stoking division.
Speaking Thursday during a courtesy call with Oba Francis Alao, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, and his wife, he rejected the idea of a power struggle between Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, and Oba Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo.
“I have consistently argued that the source of discord is not the Ooni or the Alaafin. Supporters of various historical narratives wind up causing needless strife in the process. They overlook the subjectivity of history,” Oba Ladoja remarked.
He called upon the Yoruba people to set aside contentious historical discussions and instead prioritize harmony, peace, and group advancement.
As the Ooni cannot leave Ile-Ife to govern in Oyo, neither can the Alaafin leave Oyo to rule in Ile-Ife. All kings have their territories,” he said.
The Olubadan-designate made a global analogy, comparing the current state of affairs to Britain’s colonial relations with America.
Their followers claim that the history they are referring to is outdated and akin to Britain colonizing America. “Today, Britain gets a cold if America sneezes,” he remarked.
“Many Yoruba monarchs might have ended up with titles like ‘Emir’ if it weren’t for Ibadan’s role,” Oba Ladoja said in reference to the historical impact of Ibadan. Modernizing Ibadanland and continuing the Ibadan Empire’s legacy should be our top priorities right now, not just conserving the past.
