Respect The Crowns! Gani Adams Condemns Alaafin-Ooni Seniority Arguments

Speaking at the Oke Ibadan Festival 2025, held at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, Oyo State, Chief Adams expressed his concern over recent comparisons made by bloggers and some online media platforms, urging that these debates could lead to unnecessary tension in the polity.

“I have been disheartened by the ongoing comparisons between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife regarding their seniority. Both royal thrones are highly esteemed in Yorubaland and beyond,” he said. “I urge bloggers and online platforms to avoid publishing content that may create disunity among our traditional rulers and institutions. We must be responsible and cautious in our reporting, ensuring we do not stir conflict.”

Adams also spoke on the significance of the Oke Ibadan festival, which celebrates the founding of Ibadan. While acknowledging there are various accounts of its origin, he highlighted the shared understanding that Lagelu: Oro Apata-Maja, the founder of Ibadan, established the festival.

“The Oke-Ibadan festival is an annual tradition that honors the founding of Ibadan, its people, and their cultural heritage,” Adams explained. “It is a time to reflect on the historical roots of the city and celebrate unity among the Ibadan people. It serves as a reminder of their ancestors and the legacy they left behind.”