Ifa priest Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon asserts that by Yoruba tradition the Ooni of Ife is the paramount traditional ruler of Yorubaland, condemning the current supremacy dispute with the Alaafin of Oyo as unnecessary and historically unfounded
Ifa Priest and cultural and traditional icon, Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, has identified the Ooni of Ife as the supreme traditional ruler in Yorubaland.https://t.co/wMGBjn0qFt
— The Guardian Nigeria (@GuardianNigeria) August 28, 2025
Renowned Ifa priest and cultural custodian, Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, has reaffirmed the Ooni of Ife as the foremost traditional ruler in Yorubaland. His remarks come amid the growing controversy between the Ooni, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, over traditional authority and the right to bestow chieftaincy titles across Yoruba land.
Speaking in Osogbo, Elebuibon declared that the Ooni’s supremacy is rooted in history and spirituality, not political expediency. “Ordinarily, no Oba in Yoruba land should be in contention with the Ooni for supremacy; it is for them all to respect the throne as the father of all and the most superior among the race. But what is happening now is like a child disrespecting his father,” he stated.
The Ifa priest cautioned that the dispute undermines Yoruba unity and could damage the global image of the race. “Those close to the Alaafin must tell him that what is happening is not in the interest of the Yoruba race globally,” Elebuibon warned. He urged both monarchs and their supporters to embrace dialogue and safeguard cultural harmony.
Tracing the roots of the supremacy tussle, Elebuibon explained that colonial and political manipulations deepened rivalries between Yoruba thrones. While Oyo historically symbolised political and military might, he said, Ile-Ife retains spiritual primacy as the cradle of the Yoruba people. “Tradition recognises Ile-Ife as the source, and the Ooni as father of the race,” he concluded.