In a bid to preserve peace and unity among the Yoruba traditional institution, the International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has called on two of the most revered monarchs in Yorubaland — the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi — to sheathe their swords and end the ongoing dispute over seniority.

The ICIR, in a statement released on Wednesday by its President, Fayemi Fakayode, from Ibadan, urged the monarchs to prioritise harmony and cultural solidarity, especially as the Yoruba people celebrate the Ìsẹ̀ṣe Festival, a time traditionally dedicated to peace, ancestral reverence, and spiritual renewal.

The call for peace follows a disagreement that erupted earlier in the week after the Alaafin reportedly faulted the Ooni’s decision to confer the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on businessman Dotun Sanusi. The title was conferred during the recent unveiling of “2geda,” a new indigenous social media platform, at Ilaji Hotel, Ibadan.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Fakayode praised traditional rulers who have remained steadfast in promoting indigenous values and urged others to reconnect with their cultural heritage.

He said, “As we mark this year’s Ìsẹ̀ṣe Festival, we extend our warmest felicitations to our revered traditional rulers. May they be endowed with robust health and longevity. We express our deepest gratitude to monarchs who have remained unwavering custodians of our cultural traditions, and we respectfully advise those who have embraced foreign cultures to reconnect with their heritage.

“To propel our land towards development, progress, and unity, we enjoin our traditional rulers to foster a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding. Our special appeal goes to Imperial Majesties Alayeluwa Ọba Ogunwusi and Alayeluwa Oba Owoade to continue their noble endeavours in harmony for the betterment of our people.”

ICIR emphasised that unity among royal fathers is essential for the stability and advancement of the Yoruba nation, especially at a time when cultural identity and social cohesion are under pressure.

The council urged both monarchs to uphold the sacred responsibilities of their offices by promoting peace and mutual respect, reminding them that, as symbols of tradition and unity, their actions have far-reaching implications beyond the throne rooms.