Alaafin stool: Oyo Mesi members were present when I consulted Ifa —Prof Wande Abimbola

Alaafin Stool: Oyo Mesi Present During Ifa Consultation, Says Prof. Wande Abimbola

By LASISI OLAGUNJU, FESTUS ADEDAYO, and SAHEED SALAWU

In a recent interview, Professor Wande Abimbola, renowned scholar of Ifa divination, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), and a former Majority Leader of the Nigerian Senate, shed light on his role in the selection process for the new Alaafin of Oyo.

Read Also: The UK Must Avoid Becoming Like Nigeria, Where Governance Ruins Lives,” Says Kemi Badenoch

The professor, who was installed as the Awise Awo Agbaye in 1981, revealed that Ifa divination played a pivotal role in the selection—a departure from the modern trend where monetary influence often sways decisions.

The Role of Ifa in the Alaafin’s Selection

Professor Abimbola emphasized the cultural significance of consulting Ifa, stating that traditionally, Ifa was the ultimate authority in choosing successors to kings across Yorubaland. He expressed satisfaction with the decision of the Oyo State governor to revive this ancient practice.

“For the first time in modern times in Yorubaland, Ifa played a key role in the selection of a prominent Oba. In the past, this was how it was always done—without the influence of money or power. Unfortunately, this practice had waned in recent years,” Abimbola said.

He narrated how the Ifa consultation was conducted and how a candidate was selected through the divination process. According to him, the person chosen by Ifa emerged clean during the government’s screening process, further affirming the reliability of the choice.

The Role of Oyo Mesi and Warrant Chiefs

Abimbola clarified that the kingmakers, known as Oyo Mesi, were actively involved in the Ifa consultation process. However, internal divisions among them complicated the selection process.

“The Oyo Mesi were present, but they were divided. Some of them had taken bribes and later confessed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Others took the government to court, insisting that their preferred candidate, influenced by monetary exchanges, should be installed,” he explained.

To resolve the impasse, the governor appointed two warrant chiefs to participate alongside the remaining Oyo Mesi members, ensuring due process was followed. Ultimately, the Ifa-selected candidate was endorsed by the kingmakers present.

Clash Between Tradition and Modernity?

When asked about potential conflicts between traditional practices and modern governance, Abimbola maintained that Ifa consultation aligns with cultural expectations.

“In modern times, culture still demands that Ifa be consulted. It may not be the primary method in some instances, but it remains an integral part of our tradition. Here, the kingmakers were not bypassed; they were part of the process when Ifa made its selection,” he said.

Confidence in Ifa’s Verdict

Professor Abimbola firmly asserted that Ifa does not make mistakes.

“Ifa does not make mistakes. It does not. The choice it made remains the best for the Alaafin stool,” he declared.

The professor’s insights underscore the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in Yorubaland’s cultural and political landscape, offering a rare glimpse into the restoration of ancient customs in contemporary governance.