Ighoho Cautions Those Calling For Alaafin’s Arrest 

…. Says Such Action A Reckless Disregard For Yoruba’s Culture, Unity  

By Joseph Sunday

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Popular Yoruba Nation Human Rights Activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, also known as ‘Igboho Oosa’ has cautioned those calling for the arrest of Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Abdulakeem Abimbola Owoade, describing such an idea and action as a reckless disregard for the Yoruba’s cultural heritage and unity. 

Reacting further, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, also known as ‘Igboho Oosa’, in his swift and decisive response to the recent call by a group known as Yoruba Muslims for Freedom, YMF, for the arrest of Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom, sounded a strong warning against such a blatant act of disrespect towards the Yoruba Traditional Institution. 

He condemned the group’s reckless statement, emphasizing that such demands undermined the sacred cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and threatened the unity of the land, as well as the traditional Institutions and the identity of the Yoruba people as a whole. 

“The Yoruba people have, for centuries, upheld a deep respect for their traditional rulers, who serve not only as cultural icons but also as custodians of the land’s values and traditions”. 

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He described the throne of the Alaafin of Oyo Kingdom as one of the most revered monarchs in the Yoruba history, declaring that any attempt to discredit or disrespect his authority would be an affront to the Yoruba identity itself.

“Chief Sunday Igboho, a well-known defender of Yoruba land, strongly criticized the group for attempting to undermine the authority of the Alaafin, reminding them that traditional rulers have always played a crucial role in maintaining order, resolving conflicts, and ensuring the prosperity of their communities. 

“He also described the call for the arrest of the Alaafin as a direct attack on the Yoruba culture, history, and the heritage. Our kings are the protectors of our land, and no outsider or group will be allowed to insult or diminish their role”.

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Sunday Igboho also condemned the divisive rhetoric used by the group, which portrayed Yoruba traditional rulers as “idol worshippers” as unworthy of respect. 

He warned that such statements are dangerous and could fuel unnecessary religious conflict among the Yoruba people.The Yoruba have always been known for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

The Islam, Christianity, and indigenous beliefs have flourished side by side for centuries. 

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He however cautioned extremists seeking to sow division by pitching one religion against another and threatening the harmony that exists.

“He said it is unacceptable for any group to claim that the Yoruba Obas are not their leaders because of religious differences. Yoruba land is built on respect and unity, not on religious supremacy. Any attempt to divide us along religious lines will be resisted.

Pointing out further, he said, “Alaafin’s right to protect his people as the YMF accused the Alaafin of Oyo of unlawfully imposing a curfew, claiming that only a civil government has the power to do so is uncalled for. 

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Arguing further, he said, “In times of crisis, the Yoruba Kings have the responsibility to make decisions that ensure the safety of their communities. The Alaafin’s decision to impose a curfew was likely driven by a need to maintain order and protect lives, rather than any unconstitutional power grab agenda or mission”. 

Sunday Igboho also used the opportunity to call for vigilance on the part of the Yoruba people against those who are seeking to dismantle the Yoruba’s cultural institutions under the guise of modernity or religious superiority.

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