The Oluwo of Iwoland in Osun State, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi has announced his intention to be addressed as the “Alaafin of Iwo,” citing the historic and cultural significance of the Alaafin title within Yorubaland.
He said this, on Tuesday while receiving the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, who paid a courtesy visit to the Iwo palace.
During the reception, Oba Akanbi stressed the importance of the Alaafin title and its origins, saying, “I don’t know any other title in Yorubaland that is superior to the Alaafin. Alaafin will continue to be Alaafin because that is the title that Oramiyan adopted and I will also adopt the saying.”
He further stated, “Henceforth, I will also want to be called Alaafin of Iwo and we will inform the government about it.”
Oba Akanbi welcomed Oba Owoade warmly and praised the new Alaafin’s humility and global exposure, expressing optimism that Oyo would experience peace and development under his leadership. He added that the visit would strengthen ties between Oyo and Iwo, noting that the relationship between both towns had always been cordial and should continue to flourish.
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade, who was accompanied by his wife, Abiwumi, and other chiefs, said he came to appreciate the Oluwo for attending his coronation ceremony held in April. He recalled that the Oluwo was among the first to congratulate him when he was named Alaafin-elect.
“I came to see Oluwo because he was at my coronation ceremony in April. Even when my name was mentioned as Alaafin-elect, Oluwo called to congratulate me. It is also good to come around to pay him a courtesy visit,” he said.
He urged other traditional rulers in Iwo to work closely with Oba Akanbi and continue supporting him for the development of the community.
Oba Abimbola Owoade was crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo in April 2025, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.
