The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, has publicly declared his intention to adopt a new title — “Alaafin of Iwo.”
The monarch made this known during a courtesy visit by the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to his palace in Iwo, Osun State, on Tuesday.
During the visit, Oba Akanbi emphasized the historical and cultural importance of the title “Alaafin,” describing it as the most revered and authoritative among traditional titles in Yorubaland.
He expressed his admiration for the prestige associated with the Alaafin title, which he noted was originally borne by Oduduwa’s descendants, particularly Oranmiyan, a key progenitor in Yoruba royal history.
“I don’t know of any title in Yorubaland that is superior to that of the Alaafin,” Oba Akanbi stated. “Alaafin remains Alaafin because that is the title Oranmiyan used, and I will also adopt that name. From now on, I would like to be called the Alaafin of Iwo, and we will officially notify the government.”
The Oluwo’s declaration came as he warmly received Oba Owoade and his entourage, which included his wife, Olori Abiwumi, and other Oyo chiefs. Oba Akanbi praised the humility and modern outlook of the new Alaafin, expressing confidence that Oyo would experience peace, growth, and stability under his reign.
He highlighted the cordial relationship that has long existed between the towns of Iwo and Oyo, stating that the visit would serve to further strengthen that bond. “This visit is not just a courtesy; it’s a reaffirmation of unity between two historic towns,” he said.
Responding to the warm reception, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, expressed his appreciation for the Oluwo’s support during his ascension to the throne. He recalled that Oba Akanbi was one of the first traditional rulers to congratulate him after his name was announced as the Alaafin-elect, and that the Oluwo was present at his coronation ceremony in April 2025.
“I came to visit the Oluwo because he honored me with his presence at my coronation. Even before that, when I was declared Alaafin-elect, he called to congratulate me. It is only right to return that respect by visiting him,” Oba Owoade said.
Speaking further in Yoruba, Oba Owoade emphasized the need to sustain the long-standing ties between Iwo and Oyo, citing the cordial relationship his predecessor, the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, shared with the people of Iwo. He expressed hope that such bonds would be preserved and even deepened during his reign.
“Iwo and Oyo have always shared a close relationship, and that legacy must continue,” he said.
Oba Owoade also took the opportunity to address traditional rulers and stakeholders in Iwo, urging them to continue working harmoniously with the Oluwo. He encouraged them to remain supportive and committed to the town’s development under the leadership of Oba Akanbi.
Oba Abimbola Owoade was officially crowned the 46th Alaafin of Oyo in April 2025, succeeding the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned for over five decades.