The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, recently expressed his displeasure about being chased out of the Oluwo of Iwo’s palace during a visit, describing the incident as degrading.

He mentioned that this experience has led him to avoid further interactions with the Oluwo, citing a need to maintain respect as an elder despite his youth. The tensions between the two monarchs appear to stem from differing views on traditional practices.

The Oluwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has publicly criticized traditional worship, advocating for a strictly Islamic approach and discouraging practices he considers idol worship. He emphasized the historical context of Islam in Iwo, noting the town’s conversion and its rejection of idol worship.

Past incidents have fueled their strained relationship, including allegations from Akanbi that Ogunwusi’s bodyguard pushed him during a meeting, which Ogunwusi denied.

Despite these conflicts, both remain significant figures in Osun State’s traditional leadership.