The palace was not responsible for his death
The Media and Publicity Office of the Alaafin of Oyo has refuted allegations linking Oba Abimbola Owoade to the death of Chief Lukman Ojora Arounfale, a Yoruba traditional ruler based in the United States. Arounfale, known as the Baba Oba of Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina, reportedly died following an alleged assault during a visit to the Alaafin’s palace.
Palace spokesman, Bode Durojaye, told The PUNCH, “The palace, through me, had issued a rebuttal to the media on the unconfirmed story. The palace was not responsible for his death.”
Durojaye also condemned online speculations suggesting tension between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
“Our forebears understood the weight of royal responsibility. Oba Owoade embraces this legacy with humility and honour,” he said.
He called on the public to dismiss divisive narratives and focus on unity and progress: “The Alaafin holds the Ooni of Ife and all custodians of Yoruba heritage in high regard.”