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48-Hour Ultimatum: Gani Adams Intervenes in Alaafin–Ooni Feud
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Ooni’s palace dismisses ultimatum, calling it a matter for public opinion.
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Gani Adams begins mediation, urging unity and leaders’ intervention
Prominent Yoruba elders and leaders have stepped in to mediate the dispute between the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, following a public exchange that has stirred concern across Yorubaland.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the disagreement began on Monday when the Alaafin issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni to reverse a chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland conferred on businessman Dotun Sanusi. In response, the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, dismissed the ultimatum, saying the palace would not dignify the matter with an official statement, describing it as an issue best left to “the court of public opinion.”
Reacting on Tuesday, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, announced that he had reached out to Yoruba leaders to mediate in the crisis. He emphasized the need for unity and cautioned against actions capable of reopening old wounds.
Adams said, “It is an issue between two fathers. I have been calling Yoruba leaders to look for a way to resolve it. We don’t want the unity of Yoruba land to be tampered with now. I will talk to them and ensure this matter does not escalate.”
He noted that his longstanding closeness with both palaces gives him a unique position to mediate, stressing that cultural and political figures alike must play active roles in settling the rift.
Acknowledging that the dispute has lingered for some time, Adams expressed optimism that the matter would be resolved soon. He reiterated that Yoruba leaders and political figures have critical roles to play in preventing further division.
