History, Ego, and the Future of Yoruba Leadership By Femi Obembe

I have closely followed the actions and reactions of our monarchs in Yorubaland over the past few years regarding the question of superiority among Obas—particularly between the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo. If not properly managed, this rivalry risks creating deep divisions in Yorubaland, further diminishing our region’s political and economic relevance within the Nigerian federation.

Recently, I read in the news where the Olubadan rightly referred to himself as the Olubadan of Ibadan, not of Yorubaland. This distinction is important. We must learn from history and recognize that leadership is not about self-exaltation but about service. To be chosen as an Oba is to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading, and true leadership requires thinking less of oneself and more of others.

In the days of Oba Sijuade Olubuse and the Alaafin of Oyo, hostilities between them polarized the Yoruba people. Yet when Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi ascended the throne, he chose a different path. He personally visited the Alaafin in Oyo, and in a widely circulated video, the Alaafin bowed to greet Kabiyesi Enitan—someone young enough to be his grandchild. That gesture of respect did not diminish the Alaafin’s stature; rather, it symbolized mutual honor.  May the Lord continue to grant Oba Adeyemi a peaceful rest.   Since then, the Ooni has continued to visit other Yoruba Obas, fostering unity across the land.

While it is true that certain thrones carried greater reverence in ancient times, history must be approached with caution today. The character, integrity, and charisma of the individual occupying a throne often speak louder than the throne itself. For example, Iloko-Ijesa was relatively unknown until Oba Oladele Olashore, a seasoned banker and national figure, ascended its throne. His record of public service elevated the town’s importance in Yorubaland. Similarly, the current Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, distinguished himself as a corporate leader, senator, and governor before ascending to the throne. To suggest superiority over such a figure without comparable antecedents diminishes the dignity of both the Oba and his domain.

A king should be a bridge builder, committed to bringing development to his people. This cannot be achieved by remaining in the palace and demanding obeisance from others. True elevation of a throne comes through outreach, respect, and collaboration with fellow monarchs. The Oyo Empire of pre-colonial times is no longer the same in today’s Nigeria, with its federal structure of states and local governments. Any Oba who clings rigidly to ancient notions of supremacy risks irrelevance in the modern age.

The future of Yorubaland depends not on rivalry but on unity. Our monarchs must embrace humility, mutual respect, and service, for only then can their thrones truly shine and their people prosper.

Femi Obembe is a public policy/public affairs analyst.