Oluwo of Iwoland demands new title, ‘His Imperial Majesty’

October 14, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, also known as Telu 1, has issued a directive to be addressed as “His Imperial Majesty” instead of “His Royal Majesty”.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Sunday, Oba Abdulrosheed explained that his decision stems from the historical significance and prestige of his throne.

As a direct descendant of Oduduwa, the legendary founder of the Yoruba kingdom, and the natural paramount crown of Iwo since its inception, the Oluwo believes his title should reflect this esteemed heritage.

The monarch emphasized that Iwo’s unique history sets it apart from other towns, where kings were promoted from Baale (Dukes) to Oba (monarch). Iwo, however, has never had a Baale, solidifying the Oluwo’s position as a paramount ruler.

The statement reads, “The general public, most especially the admirers of The Paramount Ruler of Iwoland, are to note that Oluwo is an Imperial Majesty, not His Royal Majesty.

“The stool of Oluwo commands the respect of the direct blood of Oduduwa. The Oluwo stool is a crown from inception. Unlike many other stools in Yorubaland, Iwo stool was never upgraded from Baaleship. It is a natural Paramount crown from formation. Oluwo is a viceroy of none. Oluwo has over 30 Obas he crowned.

“As such, Oluwo should always be addressed as His Imperial Majesty, not His Royal Majesty. Any correspondence without proper address will not be honoured. No General will love to be called a sergeant likewise no Doctor will answer the name of a nurse.”

He called on the general public and Iwo sons and daughters to officially take note and address him as that (His Imperial Majesty).