Over the past two weeks, the reported cautionary letter issued to the Oluwo of Iwo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi Ilufemiloye, Telu I, by the Osun State Government has generated mixed reactions. Some welcome the intervention; others, especially your fans strongly disagree. I belong to neither camp.
As a public analyst, I humbly offer His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi Ilufemiloye, Telu I and his fans the following pieces of advice.
Your Majesty should please consider one reality: the state government has statutory powers over the traditional ruler appointments, recognition, regulation and remuneration, subject to the law. Royal wisdom therefore demands understanding the limits of traditional authority and the constitutional responsibilities of government.
Your Majesty, religious and cultural differences have generated tensions within Yorubaland and Iwo. You have the fundamental rights to affirm your Islamic faith. No apology for that! We know that some critics of your Islamic convictions have expressed their disagreements in provocative ways. Some called you derogatory names! Nevertheless, these challenges require emotional intelligence, strategic caution and royal restraint.
As a proud Muslim, I admire your commitment to Islam. However, frequent public responses, street slang and prolonged verbal exchanges are, in my opinion, inconsistent with Islamic etiquette and the dignity of kingship.
As the Yoruba proverb reminds us:
“Oba kì í jagun bí ẹrú.” (A king does not fight battles like a servant).
And equally important:
“Oluwo kò ṣe wò!” (The Oluwo’s throne is not one to be treated lightly or defeated).
Your Majesty, the Sultan of Sokoto,Emir of Ilorin, Emir of Kano, Ooni of Ife, Oba Akiolu of Lagos, the Olubadan and the Oba of Benin provide useful examples of the value of measured royal communication.
The above mentioned Kings are daily insulted, but the decline to respond because they understood that royalty must be defended through wisdom, composure and dignity rather than unnecessary confrontation.
Your Majesty, consider paying courtesy visits to the Osun State Governor and the Commissioner responsible for Chieftaincy Affairs as gestures of institutional respect and commitment to constructive engagement. Such diplomatic outreach can strengthen relationships with government, clear misleading information, expand your influence and create opportunities for meaningful collaboration.
Beyond this, Your Majesty should focus more on peaceful coexistence, charitable initiatives in Iwoland, children’s mentorship, youth empowerment, plight of widows and sustainable community development.
Reposition yourself as an Ambassador of Islam, Proponent of the Positive Aspects of Yoruba Culture, a Father to All, and a Servant Leader.
Demonstrate that Islamic convictions, appreciation of Yoruba heritage and peaceful coexistence can complement one another.
These noble pursuits will strengthen your public image, enhance your royal legacy and elevate your standing beyond temporary controversies.
May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, patience and a peaceful reign.
Do you know, you are very handsome 🤣🤣
Long live the Oluwo! Long live Iwoland!
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Lukman Raimi, PhD, LL.M, MNIM
