The Oluwo of Iwoland in Osun State, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanni, has declared that the Alaafin title is the most superior traditional title in Yorubaland. He made this statement during a visit from the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, who was accompanied by his wife, Abiwumi, and other chiefs.
Oba Owoade emphasized the longstanding good relationship between Oyo and Iwo, noting that his predecessor, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, maintained strong ties with Iwo. He expressed his commitment to sustaining this relationship and urged other traditional rulers in Iwo to continue supporting and cooperating with the Oluwo for the development of the town.
In response, Oba Akanni thanked the Alaafin for the visit, highlighting that it would strengthen the bond between the two towns. He described the Alaafin title as supreme among all traditional titles in Yorubaland, tracing its origins to the descendants of Oduduwa. He further stated his intention to adopt the title “Alafin of Iwo” and inform the government accordingly.
Oba Akanni expressed confidence that with the Alaafin’s humility and exposure, Oyo would experience peace and unprecedented development. He assured that the existing good relationship between the towns would continue to flourish.
Oba Abimbola Owoade was crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo in April 2025, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
