Royal Rivalries Reloaded: Ogunwusi Vs. Owoade And The Return Of Yoruba Throne Battles

For centuries, the Yoruba monarchy has been more than crowns and palaces. It has always been about identity, influence, and power. From Ife, the sacred cradle of the Yoruba race, to Oyo, the political capital of a once-mighty empire, the question of who truly represents the Yoruba people has shaped history.

Now in 2025, that age-old question seems to be resurfacing. At the center of the latest storm are two respected rulers: the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), and Oba Aderemi Adedapo Owoade.

Many still remember the famous rivalry between two late monarchs — Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, the Alaafin of Oyo, and Oba Okunade Sijuwade II, the Ooni of Ife. Their contest for supremacy spanned decades and defined Yoruba affairs for much of the late 20th and early 21st century.

The Alaafin leaned on Oyo’s legacy as the capital of an empire that once dominated West Africa, while the Ooni drew strength from Ife’s sacred position as the origin of the Yoruba race. Their rivalry divided cultural groups, influenced political alliances, and shaped the South-West’s role in Nigeria’s democratic struggles.

When Oba Sijuwade passed in 2015 and Oba Adeyemi in 2022, many believed the era of supremacy battles was over. But recent events suggest that history may be repeating itself.

Since his coronation in 2015, Oba Ogunwusi has positioned himself as the spiritual and cultural leader of the Yoruba. He has invested in youth empowerment, diaspora engagement, and cultural festivals that keep Ife in global focus. His presence in the media and involvement in national discussions have made him a highly visible figure.

Oba Owoade, on the other hand, has built his influence in a quieter but no less impactful manner. Known for his strong political connections and outspoken commentaries, he is gradually becoming a central voice in Yoruba traditional leadership.

Recent incidents, including subtle protocol disputes at public events and overlapping cultural celebrations, have sparked conversations about whether the two thrones are drifting into rivalry.

This is not merely about seating arrangements at ceremonies. A rivalry between these two monarchs could shape politics, culture, and identity in Yorubaland. The Yoruba race, which has always prided itself on cultural unity, could become divided along palace lines if the tension deepens. Political analysts already warn that such divisions may play a role in the coming 2027 elections. Beyond politics, there are fears that cultural festivals and traditional institutions could become contested grounds, each throne trying to assert its primacy.

Elder statesmen have begun to weigh in. Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has urged the monarchs to avoid rivalry, stressing that unity is more important at this stage of Yoruba history. The Yoruba Council of Elders has also appealed for restraint, warning that repeating the mistakes of the Adeyemi–Sijuwade era could weaken the Yoruba voice in Nigeria’s national affairs.

The path forward could go in two directions. The tension could grow, leading to a repeat of the bitter rivalry between past monarchs. On the other hand, the situation could be managed through dialogue, allowing both kings to wield influence without creating division. For now, both palaces appear to be consolidating support and watching each other closely, while the Yoruba public looks on with keen interest.

Royal rivalries have always carried deep consequences in Yorubaland. They are not just about tradition but about political power, cultural pride, and the collective identity of millions of people. As Ogunwusi and Owoade step into a space once occupied by Adeyemi and Sijuwade, the Yoruba nation faces a familiar dilemma.

The choice before these two monarchs is clear: to let rivalry define this era, or to choose unity and cooperation. Whatever path they take will shape not only their legacies but also the destiny of the Yoruba people in years to come

Like Our Story ? Donate to Support Us, Click Here

You want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity/live coverage for product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +16477721660 or email Adebaconnector@gmail.com