The Alaafin of Oyo’s Palace has strongly denied any involvement in the sudden death of Chief Lukman Ojora Arounfale, a Yoruba traditional leader based in the United States and popularly known as the Baba Oba of Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina.
Reports had suggested that Arounfale died following an incident allegedly tied to a visit to the Alaafin’s palace, with rumors connecting the event to tensions between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, over traditional authority.
Reacting to the allegations, the Alaafin’s spokesperson, Mr. Bode Durojaye, in a statement to The PUNCH on Tuesday, dismissed the claims as baseless and misleading.
“We have previously addressed this issue through a public clarification, widely disseminated by both online and broadcast media. There is no truth to the claims that the palace had any role in his death,” Durojaye said.
He also condemned what he called “deliberate efforts by bloggers and online commentators to stir up unnecessary drama” over interactions between prominent Yoruba monarchs at a recent public event.
Durojaye stressed that the Alaafin of Oyo remains focused on addressing pressing issues affecting Yorubaland, such as economic hardship, insecurity, and the preservation of cultural values.
“In this critical time, our collective attention should be on improving the welfare of our people, protecting lives and property, and empowering our youth,” he said. “These matters are far more important than baseless speculation.”
He emphasized that the Alaafin holds deep respect for other Yoruba royal fathers, including the Ooni of Ife, and is committed to fostering unity and collaboration among traditional institutions for the development of the region.
“The Alaafin is dedicated to the legacy of leadership passed down by our ancestors—a legacy built on dignity, wisdom, and service,” he added.
“He will not be drawn into online theatrics or controversy that undermines the honour of the Yoruba throne.”
Durojaye called on the public to disregard divisive narratives and instead support unity among Yoruba leaders as a foundation for progress and harmony across the land.
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