Amidst the ongoing debate regarding the traditional hierarchy and supremacy among monarchs in Oyo State, a senior aide to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for a shift in perspective, stating that while the Oyo Empire remains a cornerstone of Yoruba heritage, its administrative dominance “belongs to history.”
The statement, issued today, seeks to provide a modern governance context to the tensions currently surrounding the stool of the Alaafin of Oyo and other prominent traditional rulers in the region.
The Presidential Aide emphasised that the evolution of the Nigerian State has redefined the roles of traditional institutions. “The historical boundaries and political suzerainty of the old Oyo Empire are vital parts of our collective identity, but they must be viewed through the lens of history,” the statement read. “In the 21st century, the strength of a monarch lies not in historical conquest, but in their role as a catalyst for peace, community development, and national unity.”
Addressing the current Alaafin directly, the Presidency urged the monarch to embrace a modern leadership model that prioritises collaboration over ancestral hierarchy. The aide noted that the supremacy debates often distract from the more pressing needs of the people, such as grassroots development and social cohesion.
“The Alaafin remains a revered symbol of our culture. However, we urge the palace to embrace the reality of modern constitutional democracy where every traditional ruler serves as a partner in progress with the government,” the aide added.
The Presidency further clarified that the Federal Government remains committed to respecting traditional institutions but maintains that these institutions must adapt to contemporary administrative structures to remain relevant in a rapidly changing Nigeria.
This intervention follows several weeks of public discourse among historians and traditional stakeholders regarding the order of precedence in the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
The Office of the President encourages all traditional rulers in Oyo State to maintain the peace and focus on supporting the administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda at the local level.
