Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Attributes Yoruba Kings’ Supremacy Tussle to Followers

The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has emphasized that the frequent disputes and perceived rivalries among prominent Yoruba monarchs are not truly instigated by the royal fathers themselves but rather by their loyalists and followers.

Oba Ladoja made this remark on Thursday at his Bodija residence in Ibadan while receiving the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, alongside his wife, during a courtesy visit.

The Olubadan-designate dismissed speculations surrounding supremacy battles among Yoruba kings, particularly between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade. According to him, most of the tension originates from followers who rely on contested and conflicting historical narratives.

“I have consistently said that neither the Ooni of Ife nor the Alaafin of Oyo is responsible for disunity. Rather, their supporters fuel the rivalry by defending different historical accounts, forgetting that history is often subjective and open to interpretation,” Oba Ladoja stated.

He called on the Yoruba people to set aside divisive debates rooted in history and instead pursue peace, unity, and collective development.

The monarch further explained that each traditional ruler has their domain and responsibilities, stressing the futility of unnecessary competition.

“The Alaafin cannot abandon Oyo to rule in Ile-Ife, just as the Ooni cannot leave Ile-Ife to govern Oyo. Every king has his own designated kingdom,” he added.

Using a global analogy, Oba Ladoja compared the situation to Britain’s colonial relationship with America.

“The historical arguments used by supporters are like Britain colonising America—events of the past. Today, the relationship between both nations is one of mutual respect, where if America sneezes, Britain catches a cold,” he explained.

Reflecting on Ibadan’s strategic position in Yoruba history, the Olubadan-designate acknowledged the city’s influential role.

“Without Ibadan’s remarkable role, many Yoruba kings would have been left with titles resembling those of ‘Emirs’. What we must prioritize now is modernizing Ibadanland and strengthening the legacy of the Ibadan Empire, not merely dwelling on history,” Oba Ladoja noted.

In response, Oba Francis Alao congratulated the Olubadan-designate on his emergence as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. He described the ascension as an outstanding milestone, not only for Ibadan but also for Oyo State and Nigeria at large.