The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has cast doubt on the role of Ifa, the traditional oracle, in the selection of new Alaafin of Oyo and Soun of Ogbomoso, two significant positions in Nigerian royalty.
In a statement obtained by Media Talk Africa on Sunday, Oba Akanbi emphasized that it is ultimately the government’s responsibility to fill the vacant stools, leaving contenders in a state of uncertainty.
While acknowledging the traditional importance of Ifa, the Oluwo maintained that it is only God who has the power to install kings, not Ifa.
The Oluwo questioned why Ifa has not picked the new Alaafin of Oyo and Soun of Ogbomoso, arguing that those who rely solely on Ifa will have to endure endless waiting. He further queried if Ifa had traveled and needed to be summoned back to fulfill its role in selecting the new monarchs.
This unexpected proclamation has sparked curiosity and raised questions among the people of Oyo and Ogbomoso, who have traditionally looked to Ifa oracle’s guidance in choosing their rulers.
It is a surprising twist to the age-old tradition of the Ifa oracle’s involvement in the selection process for the leadership of Oyo and Ogbomoso kingdoms.
The Oluwo expressed skepticism towards the reliance on Ifa, asserting that only those disconnected from reality or influenced by Nollywood movies would depend on the oracle to make their announcements. He believes that it is God who will speak through the government, making reference to the government as the “Ifa” in this context.