By The daily Torch media.
Renowned Ifa Priest Elebuibon Affirms Oyo Kingdom Originated from Ile-Ife, Urges Monarchs to Embrace Peace
Renowned Ifa priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, has reaffirmed that the ancient Oyo Kingdom traces its origins to Ile-Ife, located in present-day Osun State.
He made this known while reacting to the ongoing dispute between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.
In a recent interview with Bamidele Adeyanju, also known as Agbaletu, Elebuibon appealed to both traditional rulers to prioritise peace and unity over rivalry and ego.
Citing historical accounts, Elebuibon emphasised that the establishment of Oyo cannot be separated from Ile-Ife, just as Ife’s history is incomplete without Oyo.
“If they embrace peace, none of this should be happening. Oranmiyan, who founded the Oyo Kingdom, came from Ile-Ife. You cannot recount the history of Oyo without tracing it to Ife, and vice versa,” he said.
The respected priest cautioned against unnecessary conflict, particularly on the part of any monarch who is newly enthroned, suggesting that focus should be on development and cohesion rather than superiority.
Someone who became king not up to a year—less than six months—should not be stirring conflict. What should matter is fostering peace and unity, not fighting over seniority,” he stated.
Quoting from the Ifa divination system, Elebuibon reiterated the spiritual and historical significance of Ile-Ife as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation.
Speaking in Yoruba, he said, “Ifè sì ni Olú. Olúkólú kan kìí tó Ooni. Enìkan kìí gbá yekete k’ótó Erin. Èeyàn kìí yèkètè k’ótó ẹfòn. Olúkólú kan o tó Ooni. Baa se ba nun.”
The chant conveys the belief that the Ooni of Ife holds a unique and supreme status in Yoruba culture, likening his position to that of the elephant—unmatched among animals.
His comments come amid increased tensions and public exchanges between the two prominent Yoruba monarchs.
