In a Bold Move, Oluwo of Iwoland Insists on Being Addressed as ‘His Imperial Majesty’ – Here’s Why
The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has made a dramatic statement, insisting that he be addressed as ‘His Imperial Majesty’ instead of the traditional ‘His Royal Majesty’. The monarch’s decision is rooted in the respect his stool commands, being direct blood of Oduduwa, natural paramount crown from Iwo’s formation, and the lack of a Baale in Iwo’s history.
In a signed statement posted on his Facebook page, the traditional ruler emphasized that Iwo has never had a Baale, unlike many other towns, and therefore, any Oluwo of Iwo should be addressed as His Imperial Majesty. He went further to state that any correspondence without proper address will not be honoured, drawing parallels with the military and medical professions, where ranks and titles matter.
The Oluwo of Iwoland’s move has, however, triggered a counter argument from Human rights activist and public writer, Adeola Soetan, who challenged the idea of traditional rulers being addressed as Imperial Majesty. Soetan contended that any Oba that can be suspended or removed by a local government chairman or governor lacks the sovereignty and absolute territorial power to be so addressed.
Soetan, in his submission, emphasized that the appropriate title for traditional rulers is ‘His Highness’, while princesses and princes should be referred to as ‘Royal Highness’. He drew from his years of research into culture and tradition, which he claimed revealed that even prominent princes, like Prince Oladele Docemo, have rejected the title of ‘Imperial Majesty’.
As the debate rages on, the Oluwo of Iwoland’s bold move may have far-reaching implications for the Yoruba monarchy and the way traditional rulers are addressed in Nigeria. While the decision may be seen as a bid for greater respect and prestige, it also raises questions about the sovereignty and territorial power of traditional rulers in the country.
As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how the Iwo throne and other Yoruba monarchies will respond to Oba Akanbi’s declaration. One thing is certain, however – the issue has sparked a vital conversation about the place of traditional rulers in modern Nigeria, their jurisdictions, and the titles they deserve.
