Oluwo of Iwo Declares Intention to Adopt ‘Alaafin’ Title, Plans to Notify Governor Adeleke

The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has announced his decision to adopt the title “Alaafin of Iwo,” stating that he will officially inform the Osun State Government of the change.

The monarch made this known on Tuesday while receiving the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, during a courtesy visit to his palace in Iwo.

During the interaction, Oba Akanbi expressed admiration for the title “Alaafin,” traditionally associated with the ancient Oyo Kingdom, and stated that he sees no superior traditional title in Yorubaland.

“I don’t know of any traditional title in Yorubaland greater than that of the Alaafin,” he remarked.

Oba Akanbi’s declaration has drawn attention, as it signals a bold shift in traditional identity and may spark broader discourse among Yoruba royal institutions.