Traditional rulers in Ife-North Local Government Area of Osun State have given the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, a 21-day ultimatum to present proof backing his recent accusation that the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, is plotting to assassinate him.
In a viral video circulated online, the Oluwo alleged that the Ooni, along with his ex-wife, Queen Chanel, was planning to have him killed, stating that their conflict would persist.
Responding to the claim, the monarchs—under the banner of “Origbo Meje Obas”—strongly criticized Oluwo’s comments, calling them inappropriate for someone in his position as a traditional ruler.
Speaking for the group on Thursday at his palace in Edunabon, the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Adesoji Kehinde, accused the Oluwo of consistently behaving inappropriately, showing disrespect, and making offensive remarks toward the respected Oduduwa throne.
They noted that the Oluwo’s repeated outbursts appeared aimed at discrediting and mocking the Yoruba traditional institution, warning that such actions would no longer be tolerated.
Oba Kehinde stressed that the Ooni of Ife’s throne remains the undisputed head of all Yoruba Obas, adding that historical records confirm Oluwo’s repeated public attacks on the Ooni.
He also criticized the Oluwo for allegedly changing his royal titles frequently in an apparent bid to attract media attention.
“It’s surprising that the Oluwo is the only Oba in Yorubaland who changes his title every six months—from Emir of Iwo to Alaafin of Iwo—just to gain publicity. These actions continue to tarnish the reputation of Yoruba royal institutions,” he said.
The monarchs issued the 21-day deadline for Oluwo to present credible evidence supporting his claims. If he fails to do so, they warned, legal action would be taken against him once the deadline expires.