Era Of Oyo Imperial Dominance Is Over” — Tinubu’s Aide Sparks Heated Debate

According to Ireporter Online, a Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, has ignited widespread public debate after asserting that the era of imperial dominance historically linked to the old Oyo Empire has come to an end.

Ajayi maintained that in contemporary Yoruba society, no traditional ruler holds supremacy over others, stressing that historical influence should not be confused with present-day cultural or political authority. He made this known in a post shared on Saturday via (formerly Twitter), where he accompanied his remarks with a photograph of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, while challenging notions of hierarchical superiority among Yoruba monarchs.

Drawing comparisons with former global empires, Ajayi stated that just as Rome and the United Kingdom no longer exercise control over territories they once dominated, the Oyo Empire now exists solely as a part of history. He emphasised that Yorubaland was never entirely under the rule of the Alaafin, adding that the imperial reach of the Oyo Empire should not be misinterpreted as conferring present-day authority.

The presidential aide called on traditional rulers across the South-West to adapt to modern realities by embracing cooperation and mutual respect. He noted that peaceful coexistence and collaboration among monarchs would better promote unity, development and the preservation of cultural values within their respective communities.

Ajayi’s comments have continued to generate mixed reactions online, coming amid ongoing discussions over hierarchy, influence and power among traditional institutions in Yorubaland. While some cultural historians uphold the Alaafin of Oyo’s stool as historically pre-eminent within Yoruba civilisation, others argue that no single throne wields overarching authority, pointing instead to the spiritual significance of the Ooni of Ife and the ancient city of Ile-Ife.