"Rewriting history is dangerous. Nobody can deny that the collective sweat of the Yorùbá people is a shared responsibility of the people irrespective of where they are from, but central in such reality is the Alaafin, who would always make himself available for his people. As such, he is expected to call the people to order when he notices things are not moving. Nobody dares to undermine the authority of the Alaafin among the Yorùbá people. For that reason, the new Alaafin should immediately take the authority of his office to see to the installation of the proper virtues on the thrones of Yorùbá kings. In essence, the Alaafin can make other chiefs accountable for their people and the Yorùbá populace generally by making them take charge of what is expected"......
Renowned Historian, Professor Toyin Falola.
By BODE DUROJAIYE.
Falsehood cannot thrive over truthfulness in the long term because it is fundamentally unsustainable, requiring constant maintenance and additional deception to survive, whereas truth is anchored in reality and remains consistent.
While falsehood may offer temporary comfort or gain, it ultimately collapses under the weight of evidence, time, and its own internal contradictions.
There are a plethora of factors known to influence a decision. This might include money, social status, personal biases, and gullibility.
Unfortunately, none of those factors directly equate to sincerity. They can, however, influence someone’s perspective.
Truth has a quiet way of revealing itself. No matter how carefully lies are hidden or how long they are protected, they cannot last forever. Deception may delay reality, but it never erases it.
In the end, honesty stands firm while falsehood fades. Truth does not need force or defense—it simply waits for the right moment to surface. And when it does, it brings clarity, accountability, and the chance to move forward with integrity.
However, the Alaafin, "Owner of the Palace", symbolizes the Imperial Glory of the Yoruba Empire.
The institution remains a Custodian of Yoruba culture, politics, and tradition.
It serves as a reminder of the Yoruba’s sophisticated pre- colonial political system, one that balanced power with accountability.
The Alaafin is not merely a king but the embodiment of Yoruba Imperial Heritage and political power. From the days of the mighty Oyo cavalry till today, the revered throne has stood as a beacon of Yoruba identity.
Today, it continues as one of the most respected monarchies in Africa, uniting tradition with modern cultural pride.
The Alaafin also remains a Premier symbol of Yoruba heritage due to his role as the Paramount Custodian of the traditions, history, and, historically, the Political Power of the Oyo Empire.
As the descendant of Oranmiyan, grandson of Oduduwa, the Alaafin embodies the continuity of a legacy that once functioned as the military and administrative stronghold of the Yoruba people.
What is more, the Alaafin serves as the Guardian of Yoruba Cultural Identity and is considered a unifying force for the Yoruba people.
With the title meaning "owner of the palace," the Alaafin is seen as a central authority and is considered Ekeji Orisha, a direct spiritual representative on earth, initiated into mysteries like Ifa and Sango.
Ancient protocols are still observed at the Alaafin’s Palace, which symbolizes Yoruba royalty and governance and reflects a deep, unbroken traditional authority.
In contemporary times, the Alaafin is viewed as a "bridge between the past and the future," continuing to uphold the dignity and legacy of the Oyo kingdom.
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu , during the colourful coronation ceremony of the Alaafin, His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, described the Alaafin stool "" as a Symbol of Cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires"".
Tinubu said: “Kabiyesi, your ascension to this revered throne comes at a critical time in our nation’s history. Nigeria is navigating complex challenges, and traditional institutions like the Alaafin’s stool remain ""vital in fostering peace, promoting cultural identity, and supporting governance"".
President Tinubu affirmed his commitment to preserving our cultural heritage by supporting initiatives that promote our rich traditions and ensure that Nigeria’s diverse cultures remain a source of strength.
According to the President, " to the great people of Oyo, I urge you to rally behind your new Alaafin, support his vision, and uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and development. Let us remember the words of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III: “A kingdom thrives when its people are united in purpose.
" For the Alaafin, you are on the threshold of history as successor to Oba Adeyemi III who was one of the most influential and longest-reigning monarchs in Yoruba history. His reign was a period of cultural renaissance, political influence, and socio-economic development for Oyo Town, Oyo State, and the Yoruba nation at large"..
Also, a renowned Yoruba Historian, Professor Toyin Falola has this to say, ""rewriting history is dangerous. Nobody can deny that the collective sweat of the Yorùbá people is a shared responsibility of the people irrespective of where they are from, but central in such reality is the Alaafin, who would always make himself available for his people".
He went further, " as such, he is expected to call the people to order when he notices things are not moving. Nobody dares to undermine the authority of the Alaafin among the Yorùbá people. For that reason, the new Alaafin should immediately take the authority of his office to see to the installation of the proper virtues on the thrones of Yorùbá kings.
" In essence, the Alaafin can make other chiefs accountable for their people and the Yorùbá populace generally by making them take charge of what is expected"".
The position of Oba, Prof. Falola pointed out, is an exclusive toil of selfless and relentless figures who were deeply rooted in indigenous power, and it should not be usurped by" " people masking their desire to please their expansionist allies.".
Alaafin Owoade quite understands the need for contemporary leadership that is ethical and people-oriented.
He is also aware that socio-cultural import of Yorùbá history is that anyone sitting on that stool would inherit such character of leadership because they are meant to repel danger away from the Yorùbá world, hence he is doing this by striving hard to uphold leadership responsibilities and initiatives.
To be continued......
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