The Paramount Ruler of Iwo, Osun State, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, discusses his disdain for idol worship, the role of traditional institutions, and his experiences during Hajj in a conversation with BIODUN BUSARI.

Those Criticizing Me for Not Covering My Head in Mecca Are Ignorant — Oluwo

Your Stance on Idol Worship is Well-Known. Have Any of Your Chiefs or Kingmakers Opposed This View?

First, I give all glory to the Almighty God, the King of kings. You ask why I choose to worship God and not idols. Worshipping idols is a personal choice, not an inherent part of kingship. The institution of kingship is divine, with God as the ultimate king. The first king, according to history, was Adam, created by God.

In Yoruba history, who made Oduduwa a king? Did Oduduwa worship idols like Sango (the god of thunder)? The title ‘Kabiyesi’ or ‘Oba’ is ascribed to God Almighty. Kings represent God on earth, not idols. A king must lead people closer to God, not idols. The troubles in Yoruba land today are because kings have turned away from God, losing their respect. Historically, kings did not worship idols. Oduduwa predated Ogun (the god of iron), and Oya (Sango’s wife) — how could a king worship another man’s wife? It’s even an insult for Yoruba kings to worship Sango, whose name isn’t of Yoruba origin.

Idol worship is not our identity as Yoruba people. It is man-made and universal among those who don’t know how to worship God. God owns my throne, and I cannot give it to idols.

Do the Chiefs and Kingmakers in Iwoland Share Your Beliefs?

Many chiefs and kingmakers have created problems for kings. Not all chiefs are allies of the king; some seek to replace kings frequently to benefit financially from enthronements. They lead kings astray for their gain. The king, as the leader, must direct his people towards God. I aim to correct past mistakes and modernize traditions while respecting culture without idol worship.

Some claim everything about kingship involves idol worship, which is false. I am a reformist, here to modernize the traditional institution.

Do You Face Opposition in Your Kingdom?

As the leader, I control the kingdom, and the chiefs are like passengers in my vehicle. They must follow my lead towards greatness, which is evident in my achievements and the love from my people. I move freely among my people, protected by God. I’m dedicated to God, and no opposition can deter me. This isn’t just about me but for all kings who stay true to God.

As a first-class ruler with 35 kings under me, I strive to enlighten other kings. Iwo promotes the Yoruba language and culture, but I’ll never support anything outside of God. Kings should promote God more than religious leaders.

What Legacy Do You Aim to Leave in Iwoland?

I want to instill the worship of Olodumare (God) in everyone. There is one God, accessible to all directly, without intermediaries like Ekiti gods or Agemo. My legacy is to introduce God to everyone. This universe is God’s company, and kings are like CEOs who must honor Him, not idols. Kingship is about culture, not idol worship.

What Role Should Traditional Institutions Play in National Development?

Traditional rulers have significant roles but lack recognition. Empowering kings would reduce crime, as local monarchs know their communities well. However, kings lack autonomy and resources, hindering their effectiveness. Politicians, not from royal families, fail to appreciate the importance of kingship. If kings were empowered, security would improve. Traditional rulers should serve their people diligently and be well-supported by the government.

Addressing the Perception That Yoruba Kings Must Join Occult Groups

I reject the notion that my crown should be subject to idols or occult practices. The people behind these practices aren’t as powerful as kings. I am ordained by the King of Kings, not by deities created by man. My legacy is about modernizing our history and preserving it in museums, not worshipping it. I focus on leaving my own legacy, not idolizing the past.

Read also: