Afenifere US Chapter Urges Calm Over Disputes Involving Yoruba Monarchs
The United States chapter of Afenifere has appealed for calm, unity and constructive dialogue following recent controversies involving prominent traditional rulers in Southwest Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its president, Akindutire Odimayo Durojaye, the group expressed concern about the growing public debate and reactions surrounding developments linked to key Yoruba monarchs.
The organisation noted that while disagreements can arise within any institution, the tone of recent public commentary requires reflection, restraint and a collective sense of responsibility.
The group recalled that on October 24, 2025, during the 90th birthday celebration of Kessington Adebutu held at Eko Hotel & Suites, a reconciliation meeting took place between the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo. According to the statement, the intervention was widely seen as a positive step toward strengthening unity and dialogue in Yorubaland.
However, it said later developments particularly reports from an interfaith event held on January 12, 2026, at the Secretariat Grand Space in Agodi, Ibadan—have sparked renewed public discussion.
The gathering, attended by the Alaafin and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, attracted attention after media reports about an alleged handshake incident triggered strong reactions.
The group said that although interpretations of the incident vary, public discourse should not erode respect for traditional rulers or weaken the integrity of Yoruba traditional institutions.
It also referred to an ongoing legal dispute between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Oyo State Government concerning the elevation of certain high chiefs to beaded-crown status. According to the group, narratives surrounding the disagreement have contributed to perceptions of division within the Yoruba traditional system.
While expressing confidence that the dispute would be resolved through lawful and peaceful processes consistent with democratic principles and Yoruba traditions of consultation, the organisation emphasised the need for responsible commentary.
The group urged traditional rulers to advise their supporters both in Nigeria and in the diaspora to avoid inflammatory remarks or misrepresentations, particularly on social media platforms.
It also encouraged monarchs to maintain restraint in their public statements and actions, noting the historical dignity attached to their offices.
The chapter further called for continued dialogue among stakeholders, suggesting that respected Yoruba elders such as Reuben Fasoranti and former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside other prominent statesmen and scholars, could help guide reconciliation efforts.
According to the group, traditional institutions remain central to identity, continuity and moral authority in Yorubaland and therefore require collective protection.
It expressed confidence that Yorubaland, which has historically resolved internal disagreements through consultation and patience, would once again find a peaceful path toward unity.
