Iwo: The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, visited the Oluwo of Iwoland in Osun, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanni, to advocate for continued cooperation between the two towns. Accompanied by his wife, Abiwumi, and other chiefs, the Alaafin expressed his gratitude to the Oluwo for attending his coronation ceremony in April.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oba Owoade highlighted the longstanding relationship between Oyo and Iwo, emphasizing the importance of maintaining this bond. He recalled how the Oluwo congratulated him upon being named the Alaafin-elect, reinforcing the cordial ties between the two leaders. The Alaafin stated, “Iwo and Oyo have been enjoying good relationship for years, even with my predecessor and I want that relationship to continue.”
Oba Owoade urged the traditional rulers of Iwo to continue supporting Oluwo with an open mind, promoting unity and collaboration for the town’s development. Meanwhile, Oba Akanbi expressed his appreciation for the Alaafin’s visit, noting that it would further strengthen the relationship between Oyo and Iwo.
The Oluwo lauded the significance of the Alaafin title in Yorubaland, affirming its supreme status among traditional titles. He also expressed a desire for Iwo to adopt a similar prestigious title, emphasizing the potential for growth and peace under the Alaafin’s leadership. The Oluwo remarked, “Henceforth, I will also want to be called Alaafin of Iwo and we will inform government about it.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Oba Abimbola Owoade was crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo in April 2025, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, and since then has been actively working to foster unity and development in the region.