The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Olushola Alao, has emphasised the sacred role of history, tradition, and culture in preserving the authority of the Alaafin of Oyo. During a visit by the newly installed Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, to his palace in Orile-Igbon, the Olugbon described the Alaafin’s stool as one of the most respected and powerful thrones within and beyond Oyo State. He noted that the title predates the ancient Oyo Empire and remains deeply valued by the Yoruba people and others across the region.
Oba Alao pointed out that despite modern changes, historical legacies should never be sidelined. He described the Alaafin stool as a symbol that must be honoured and not taken lightly. Reflecting on state matters, the Olugbon addressed the long-standing delay in reactivating the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs. He assured that the state government, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, is working to resolve the issues that have hindered the council’s revival. According to him, the governor has expressed genuine interest in restoring the council’s functions, which have been inactive for several years.
He expressed confidence that the council would be reconstituted before the end of the current administration and stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence among traditional rulers. Oba Alao also expressed gratitude to Oba Owoade for making Orile-Igbon his first stop on his tour of palaces across the region. He pledged continued support to strengthen ties between the Orile-Igbon community and the Oyo Kingdom.
In response, the Alaafin of Oyo commended the Olugbon for actively preserving Yoruba culture and history. He thanked traditional rulers in Surulere Local Government Area for their warm reception and promised to promote unity and cooperation among royal fathers across Yorubaland.
