Alaafin of Oyo Denies Involvement in Death of US-based Yoruba Monarch

The Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo has firmly denied any connection to the recent death of a Yoruba traditional ruler residing in the United States, Chief Lukman Ojora Arounfale, also known as the Baba Oba of Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina.

The late monarch was reported to have passed away following an alleged altercation said to have occurred during a visit to the Alaafin’s palace. 

Speculation had linked the incident to ongoing tensions between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, particularly over issues of traditional supremacy.

However, speaking with The PUNCH on Tuesday, the spokesman for the Alaafin’s Palace, Mr. Bode Durojaye, dismissed the claims as unfounded and misleading.

“The palace had earlier released an official rebuttal, which was widely shared across both print and electronic media,” Durojaye stated. 

“We categorically maintain that the palace is not in any way connected to Chief Arounfale’s death.”

In a previous statement, Durojaye also criticized certain online platforms and commentators for deliberately spreading misleading narratives about a recent encounter between the Alaafin and the Ooni at a public function.

He said, “Some bloggers are attempting to create unnecessary tension by misrepresenting the nature of the interaction between our revered monarchs. Such distractions are harmful and divert attention from more important issues facing Yorubaland.”

He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration among traditional rulers, particularly during a time when Yoruba communities are grappling with serious economic and security challenges.

“The Alaafin remains committed to working with all royal institutions, including the Ooni of Ife, to foster unity, justice, and development across Yorubaland,” he noted.

Durojaye described Oba Abimbola Owoade as a monarch who upholds the dignity and responsibility associated with the Yoruba throne, refusing to be drawn into public drama or online sensationalism.

He urged the public to focus on collective progress and to disregard divisive rumors, adding that the Alaafin views tradition not as a point of rivalry, but as a tool for unity and community empowerment.