The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Akanbi, has clarified that the Ooni of Ife has never visited his palace, disputing claims made by the Ooni that he was “walked out” like a child during a visit.
In a recent trending video, the Ooni mentioned the alleged incident, stating, “When I visited Oluwo, he chased me out like a child.” He expressed hesitance about visiting again, citing concerns over Oluwo’s behavior.
In response, Oluwo’s spokesperson, Alli Ibrahim, stated that the video is old and emphasized that the Ooni has never been to Oluwo’s palace. He mentioned that an official response from the palace would follow.
The two monarchs have been in a longstanding dispute regarding their ages and seniority, with Oluwo reportedly being seven years older than the Ooni, who is regarded as the head of traditional rulers in the Southwest.