Ilorin Emirate youths raise concern over Alaafin’s visit to Kwara
O’odua group praises Alaafin
By Omolade Adegbuyi
There is controversy over the visits of the Alaafin of Oyo to Yoruba traditional rulers in Kwara State.
On Saturday, the Ilorin Emirate Youth Development Association (IEYDA) expressed concern over the recent visit of the Alaafin of Oyo
Oba (Dr.) Abimbola Akeem Owoade I
to communities within the Ilorin Emirate, describing it as a breach of established traditional protocols.
But the Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements, (AYDM) praised the Alaafin for what they described as “historic visits.”
The AYDM,a coalition of 130 Pan Yoruba groups said the visit by the Alaafin does not need permit from the Emir of Ilorin,
Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, is the 11th and current Emir of Ilorin
who the AYDM said was installed as Emir more than 700 years after several Alaafins had ruled Oyo Empire which extended to the present day Ilorin
“The take over of Ilorin which is owned by the Yoruba people is a matter of time. The visit of Alaafin to Kwara State is in line with tradition that is over 600 years old. The Yoruba Obas in Kwara are the owners of the land while the Emir is a visitor,” AYDM State Secretary in Kwara,Sanusi Abdulahi Balogun said in a chat with Irohinoodua.
The statement by the Emirate Youths appears to be in furtherance of Emir of Ilorin’s desire to lord his Fulani birthright over Kwara State, a predominantly Yoruba dominated State.
In a statement jointly signed by its National President, Alhaji Mohammed Uthman Jagunmo, and National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Abdullahi Abdulfatahi Oloyin and made available to Irohinoodua the association alleged that the visit to Shao and Jebba communities in Moro Local Government Area occurred without prior notification or approval from the Emir of Ilorin.
IEYDA described the development as a disregard for the authority and position of the Emir of Ilorin, who also serves as Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Emirs, Obas and Chiefs.
But in a counter statement, the Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements, AYDM berated the Emirate saying the Alaafin has the freedom of movement over his ancestral territories. The AYDM warned the Ilorin Emirate Youths to desist from making inflamatory statements.
“Ilorin and the entire Kwara State is an extention of Oodua Nation. The Emir and his paid agents cannot do anything about it. The Alaafin of Oyo has the right visit. He does not require permission from Emir of Ilorin
The Emirate group further characterised the visit as an intrusion into the Emirate’s domain, stressing that established customs require due consultation and adherence to protocol before such engagements can take place.
According to the association, it could not recall a similar instance where the Emir of Ilorin or any other traditional ruler visited territories under the Alaafin without proper notification, warning that such actions could generate unnecessary tension, particularly in communities with sensitive traditional structures.
The association, however, called for calm and urged relevant authorities, including the Kwara State Government led by Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the Oyo State Government under Seyi Makinde, and security agencies to intervene and prevent any escalation.
IEYDA emphasized the need for mutual respect among traditional institutions, noting that Kwara State and the Ilorin Emirate are historically known for peaceful coexistence.
While advocating dialogue and understanding, the group urged the Alaafin to exercise caution in future engagements to avoid actions that could strain inter-community relations.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, and stability, adding that it has continued to counsel restraint among youths in the Emirate despite growing concerns.
IEYDA called on all stakeholders to act responsibly in the interest of maintaining harmony and preventing avoidable disputes.
