Alaafin of Oyo strengthens historical ties with Olufon of Ifon-Osun in grand royal visit

June 03, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Ikú Bàbá Yeye, Oba Akeem Owoade I, paid a grand courtesy visit to the Olufon of Ifon-Osun, Orolu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Ọba Peter Oluwole Ipadeola Ilufemiloye, Akinyooye III, on June 2, 2025.

This historic visit aimed to renew centuries-old historical and cultural ties between the two ancient thrones.

According to the Olufon, the visit marked a glorious moment of reconnection between the two thrones, rooted in deep historical and spiritual lineage.

“The Alaafin stool is divinely linked to the Olufon throne by shared history, values, and destiny that calls for unity and cooperation,” the Alaafin noted.

During the visit, the Olufon recounted the significant role his royal ancestor, Ọba Aladikun Olaosha, played in crowning the Alaafin of Oyo during the formative years of the Old Ọ̀yọ́ Empire.

This historical bond has conferred exclusive privileges on the Olufon throne, including the right to wear full royal regalia, crown, and shoes when visiting the Alaafin.

The Alaafin expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception and acknowledged the ancient bond between the two thrones.

“The exceptional hospitality I received is a reflection of the cultural richness and royal heritage of Ifon-Osun,” he said. Both monarchs emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation, pledging to preserve their sacred relationship and foster stronger cultural, social, and economic collaborations.

The event featured a cultural display of praise poetry, highlighting the shared identity and ancestral pride of the Yoruba people.

In his remarks, the Olufon expressed optimism that the renewal of their time-honored relationship would bring renewed development, cultural revival, and unity among the people of Oyo and Ifon-Osun.

The Alaafin and Olufon also engaged in an extensive session of royal prayers, invoking divine blessings for longevity, wisdom, and a peaceful, prosperous reign.

The visit served as a spiritual, cultural, and diplomatic affirmation of Yoruba unity and continuity, demonstrating the significance of tradition in community building and intergenerational progress.