Olojudo Declares Ooni Sole Leader Of Yoruba Traditional Institution, Dismisses Reported Split

The Olojudo of Ido-Osun Alayemore, Oba Olayinka Oyetunde Ishola Jokotola, has reaffirmed that the Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi remains the undisputed leader of the traditional institution across Yorubaland, dismissing reports of a division among Yoruba monarchs.

Oba Jokotola made the declaration during the 2026 Osun Olojudo Festival held in Ido-Osun, where he described reports of a split within the traditional institution as false and misleading.

Reacting to recent controversies surrounding the emergence of a new traditional council, the monarch insisted that traditional rulers in Yorubaland remain united under the leadership of the Ooni of Ife.

“I don’t believe there is any crisis among traditional rulers. We all recognise the Ooni of Ife as our traditional leader across Yorubaland. Most of the stories about division are created by social media users who are trying to set a different agenda and create unnecessary narratives,” Oba Jokotola said.

He stressed that history, culture and tradition clearly recognise the Ooni of Ife as the foremost custodian of Yoruba customs and heritage.

“Historically, culturally and traditionally, the Ooni is the supreme leader of the Yoruba traditional institution. He is the number one custodian of Yoruba culture and traditions. Any other narration is simply a fallacy that cannot stand,” he added.

The monarch’s comments come amid reactions trailing the formation of a new traditional council reportedly initiated by Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi. The development has generated debate in Osun State, with some traditional rulers distancing themselves from the initiative.

Oba Jokotola maintained that the only recognised body of traditional rulers in the state is the Osun State Council of Obas, dismissing claims of the existence of senatorial traditional councils.

“My kingdom is in Osun West, and I can tell you there is nothing like the Osun West Traditional Council. There are regional groupings for administrative convenience, but they are not councils. For emphasis, there is no other council except the Osun State Council of Obas under our revered father, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who is also the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council and Co-Chairman of the Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council,” the Olojudo stated.