LagosExplorer reports: The Alaafin of Oyo has given the Ooni of Ife a 48-hour deadline to withdraw the Okanlomo of Yorubaland title conferred on Ibadan businessman and philanthropist, Sanusi ‘Ilaji’.
According to Punch Newspaper, the Alaafin, recalled his recent tour across Yorubaland where he emphasised that peace and unity remain essential for sustainable development in the region.
“The conferment of chieftaincy title, which bothers on Yorubaland by the Ooni of Ife, is not only an affront to the revered institution of the Alaafin, who is the Titan of Yorubaland and who holds the exclusive right to confer any chieftaincy title which covers the entire Yorubaland, on anyone,” the statement reads.
“The Ooni of Ife is behaving as if there is no authority to check and call him to order and because of that ‘above the law’ syndrome of his, he is in the habit of walking on everybody’s’ back including the apex court in the country, the Supreme Court, which had ruled on the exclusive preserve of the Alaafin to confer chieftaincy title that covers the entire Yorubaland on anyone.
“The dictum that nobody is above the law of the land is now being put to a crucial test and the reality of our time makes it very obligatory for the Alaafin to call the Ooni of Ife to order and demand revocation of the so-called Okanlomo of Yorubaland chieftaincy title conferred on Sanusi within 48 hours or face the consequences.”
Sanusi, whose full name is Engr. Dotun Sanusi, is a billionaire businessman and owner of Ilaji Hotels and Resorts in Ibadan. He is widely known for his philanthropic works and support for grassroots empowerment, which earned him the recognition from the Ooni of Ife.
However, the Alaafin’s objection highlights the long-standing sensitivity around titles that cover the entire Yoruba nation. Historically, the Ooni of Ife is regarded as the spiritual head of Yorubaland, while the Alaafin of Oyo was the political and military leader during the days of the Oyo Empire. Because of this history, titles that extend across Yorubaland often stir debate over authority and legitimacy.
Reactions to the ultimatum have been divided. Some observers believe the Ooni acted within his rights to honour Sanusi, while others insist that such a far-reaching title should not have been conferred without wider consultation among Yoruba monarchs.