What we are witnessing is not evolution, it is erosion. It is a gradual but persistent degradation of the royal institution that has held the Yoruba nation together through wars, colonization, and modern statehood.
Recent events paint a troubling picture. The once-sacred stool of Ipetumodu has been brought to shame by a so-called king now in prison in the United States for fraud. How did we reach the point where a person with such a background could be allowed to ascend the throne of an ancient town? Is the crown now for sale to the highest bidder, regardless of their character?
The current Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi, stirred controversy by refusing to participate in traditional rites, insisting instead on his Christian faith, a move that, while personal, challenged the very foundation of the cultural and spiritual duties of a Yoruba monarch. Similarly, the Oluwo of Iwo continues to behave in ways that many Yoruba elders have described as reckless, tarnishing the reverence once reserved for royal figures.
Even more disturbing is the chaos now surrounding the revered Alaafin of Oyo’s throne, once one of the most respected in West Africa. Instead of stability, we see confusion and division, conflicts that undermine the sacred unity of our people.
And then, there was the disheartening scene recently in Ogun State, where an Oba was seen kneeling beside Governor Dapo Abiodun during a private conversation, an image that sent shockwaves through the traditional community. The Oba, seeking a favor or pleading his case, forgot that by lowering himself, he also lowered the stature of his stool. It took the intervention of Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku, a respected elder and clergyman to remind both parties that they must respect the dignity of their offices. A governor may be temporary, but the crown is eternal.
Contrast these recent actions with the legacy of Yoruba kings past. Take the example of a former Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adesoji Aderemi, who once refused to honor a colonial government invitation in Lagos until the necessary traditional rites were performed. The Ooni seldom left the sacred city of Ife without spiritual guidance. His every movement was deliberate and symbolic. But today, we see a stark difference. The current Ooni, while charismatic and modern, is often seen at nearly every public gathering from birthday parties to celebrity events. While there’s value in a relatable monarch, there must also be a line. Royalty must maintain mystique, reverence, and presence, not popularity for its own sake.
Yoruba culture is one of the most respected on the African continent. Our language, art, music, and religion have crossed oceans, with descendants in Brazil, Cuba, and the Caribbean still honoring Orisa worship and Yoruba identity. But what message do we send to the world when we allow our royal institutions to become tools of ego and spectacle?
This is not about resisting modernity. It’s about preserving identity. A modern king can embrace technology, education, and diplomacy but he must not abandon tradition. The moment the crown loses its spiritual and cultural authority, it becomes just another hat.
We owe it to our ancestors and to future generations to protect what is sacred. We must ensure that our royal stools are occupied by individuals of character, cultural depth, and spiritual insight, not opportunists or foreign-styled influencers in royal robes.
Let Yoruba royalty mean something again. Let it inspire. Let it command respect. Let it return to its rightful place, not at the mercy of politics, ego, or convenience but rooted in heritage, honor, and timeless dignity.
By Opeyemi Babarinde
