Ooni of Ife Holds Superior Status Among Yoruba Monarchs – Prof. Amusan

Professor Mathew Amusan has stated that the Ooni of Ife remains the supreme traditional ruler in Yorubaland, citing historical precedent and a personal account from 1989.

Speaking on the programme Ayekooto, Amusan recalled an incident during former military head of state Ibrahim Babangida’s official visit to Oyo State. He said that while the Alaafin of Oyo was standing beside the state governor at a toll gate awaiting Babangida, the arrival of the Ooni’s limousine prompted the Alaafin to step aside, creating space for the Ooni to stand next to the governor.

According to Amusan, the gesture demonstrated the Alaafin’s recognition of the Ooni’s seniority. He noted that “there is no record anywhere that any Ooni had ever contested supremacy with the Alaafin,” adding that the 1989 event reflected the traditional hierarchy, despite ongoing public debates.