The Oloni of Eti-Oni in Osun State, Oba Dokun Thompson, has challenged the notion that the title “Alaafin” is exclusive to the Oyo monarchy, asserting that the title traditionally applies to all kings occupying palaces across Yorubaland.
Oba Thompson made this clarification in response to a recent declaration by the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, who publicly stated his intention to be addressed as the “Alaafin of Iwo.” The Oluwo made the comment during a courtesy visit by the newly installed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to his palace on June 3, 2025.
“I don’t know any other title in Yorubaland that is superior to the Alaafin,” Oba Akanbi said during the visit. “Henceforth, I will also want to be called Alaafin of Iwo, and we will inform the government about it.”
However, Oba Thompson, in his reaction, said the term “Alaafin” historically means “one who dwells in the palace” and is not the exclusive preserve of the Oyo monarchy. “Every king who occupies a palace in Yorubaland can technically be referred to as an ‘Alaafin,’” he noted.
He further stressed the need for deeper understanding of Yoruba heritage and royal lexicon before staking public claims on traditional titles.
