Backlash on Oluwo of Iwo Over Alleged Attack on Yorùbá Traditions
The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, is at the center of escalating controversy following remarks perceived by many as undermining Yorùbá traditions and history.
His statements, which challenge the origins of the Yorùbá people and question long-established cultural practices, have drawn sharp criticism from traditional rulers, cultural groups, and religious organisations.
In a statement circulated widely on social media, the Oluwo claimed that Oduduwa, traditionally revered as the progenitor of the Yorùbá race, was not originally from Ile‑Ife. He asserted that Oduduwa migrated to Ife, conquered the land, and introduced customs that were distinct from those of the original inhabitants, while suggesting that Iwo holds greater historical significance.
The monarch further criticised aspects of traditional Yorùbá religious practices, specifically those associated with the ancestral Isese religion, prompting concerns that he was rejecting or disparaging sacred cultural institutions.
The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) and other cultural advocates have condemned the Oluwo’s remarks, urging him to “relearn Yorùbá history” and cautioning against moves that could erode the community’s cultural heritage.
Traditional rulers across Osun and neighbouring states echoed similar concerns, highlighting that the adoption of titles and practices perceived as non-Yorùbá could undermine the integrity of the monarchy.
Supporters of the Oluwo, including the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), have defended him, describing the backlash as Islamophobic and motivated by hostility toward his faith rather than legitimate cultural preservation concerns.
Analysts suggest that the dispute highlights the complex interplay between religion, history, and identity in contemporary Yorùbá society. The debate raises questions about how traditional institutions navigate modern religious alignments and the preservation of cultural heritage.
As tensions continue to rise, observers warn that the controversy could deepen divisions within Yorùbá communities and set a precedent for how traditional monarchies handle evolving cultural and religious dynamics.
