The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Osun State has expressed concern over the recurring rift between the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, suggesting that both monarchs may be under a spiritual spell.
The association’s president, Oluseyi Atanda, in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, said only rituals and sacrifices could restore peace between the two revered Yoruba rulers.
“The two monarchs are traditionalists. We are from the same father. What could have caused the fight? May we not be under a spell in Yorubaland. What is happening could be a spell from some people who don’t want the Yoruba race to unite,” Atanda warned.
He cautioned that the quarrel, if left unresolved, could polarise Yoruba monarchs into rival camps, escalating into a wider crisis.
Also speaking, renowned Ifa priest and poet, Ifayemi Elebuibon, revealed that traditionalists had already begun offering sacrifices to ensure peace reigns in Yorubaland.
The latest round of hostilities between the Alaafin and the Ooni was triggered after Oba Owoade faulted the Ooni’s decision to bestow the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi.
Atanda, a gynaecologist by profession, described the situation as “unfortunate,” saying aides to both monarchs should act with caution to avoid deepening the feud.
