Tension as Ataoja of Osogbo, Oluwo of Iwo Clash Over Ranking

By Ademola Adekusibe
Osogbo, Nigeria – September 23, 2025

A fresh dispute has erupted between two prominent traditional rulers in Osun State, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Oyetunji, and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, over the hierarchy of First Class monarchs in the state.

Oba Oyetunji alleged that the Ataoja’s rightful position as the fourth in the ranking of First Class Obas in Osun State was unjustly taken away and given to the Oluwo. According to him, the shift occurred during the reign of his predecessor, Oba Iyiola Oyewale Matanmi III, when he traveled abroad, allowing the hierarchy to be altered in favor of Iwo.

“The Ataoja was originally the fourth in the ranking of Osun Obas, but while my predecessor was away, the position was restructured, and the Oluwo was placed above us,” the Ataoja said.

In a swift response, the Oluwo dismissed the claim as baseless, arguing that historical records place Iwo ahead of Osogbo. He stated that the Ataoja was not recognized as a First Class monarch before 1948, insisting that Osogbo was once under the authority of a Baálè before being upgraded to First Class status.

“The Ataoja cannot claim what history does not support. The title was not even First Class before 1948. Osogbo was under a Baálè, not an Oba, until later,” the Oluwo countered.

The clash has sparked debates among indigenes and historians, with concerns that the lingering rivalry could deepen divisions among traditional institutions in Osun State. Analysts say the dispute highlights the sensitivity of royal hierarchies in Yorubaland, where ranking determines ceremonial respect, influence in state councils, and political relevance.

As of the time of filing this report, the Osun State Government has not issued an official statement on the matter.