The Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, two of the most revered traditional rulers in Yorubaland, are embroiled in a longstanding supremacy dispute. The recent flashpoint is the Alaafin’s ultimatum to the Ooni, demanding he withdraw a chieftaincy title conferred on an Ibadan-based businessman, Dotun Sanusi. The Ooni’s spokesman dismissed the ultimatum as an “empty threat”
Historically, the Ooni of Ife is regarded as the spiritual head of the Yoruba people, while the Alaafin of Oyo wielded significant political power. The Ooni’s authority is rooted in tradition and spirituality, with Ile-Ife considered the cradle of Yoruba civilization. In contrast, the Alaafin’s power stems from the Oyo Empire’s historical dominance and military prowess
The debate over supremacy between the two thrones is centuries old. Some argue it’s a clash of symbols, with the Alaafin invoking Oyo’s imperial past to assert authority, while others emphasize the Ooni’s spiritual primacy. According to Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, an Ifa priest and cultural icon, the Ooni is the most superior traditional ruler in Yorubaland, citing tradition and history
The dispute is attributed, in part, to colonialism and the indirect rule system introduced by the British. This system created divisions among traditional rulers, altering the balance of influence between the Ooni and the Alaafin. Elebuibon notes that colonial masters deliberately created divisions to maintain control 
Civil society groups and traditional leaders are urging both monarchs to prioritize unity and development over supremacy claims. Iba Gani Adams, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, has intervened, calling for peace and cooperation between the two thrones. Similarly, the International Council for Ifa Religion has appealed for unity, emphasizing the importance of peace for the Yoruba people’s development
To resolve the impasse, stakeholders suggest that both monarchs should focus on promoting peace, cooperation, and cultural pride among the Yoruba people. Consulting Ifa divination has also been proposed as a means to find a solution. Ultimately, the Ooni and Alaafin must work together to develop their people and end the supremacy battle, which has lasted for too long ³.
