25/08/2025
Oluwo of Iwo Triumphs at Appeal Court, Dares Traditionalists to a Showdown at Supreme Court
Iwo, Nigeria – In a bold and defiant declaration, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has challenged practitioners of traditional Yoruba religion, known as "Onisese," to a spiritual contest at the Supreme Court. This comes after the Court of Appeal on Friday, August 22, 2025, upheld his enthronement, dismissing a suit challenging his legitimacy as the paramount ruler of Iwoland.
The appellate court's decision affirms an earlier High Court judgment that had also ruled in favor of Oba Akanbi, solidifying his legal standing on the throne he has occupied for nearly a decade.
Reacting to the victory, an elated Oluwo described his enthronement as "divine" and insusceptible to human machinations. He taunted his opponents, whom he referred to as "perpetual failures," urging them to take their legal challenge to the nation's apex court if they remain unsatisfied with the recent verdict.
"Again and as usual, Olodumare (God) has won for me," the monarch stated. "I love battles... They should continue their litigation while I continue to reign. Please, go to Supreme Court.”
In a direct challenge aimed at the spiritual powers of his adversaries, Oba Akanbi declared his readiness to confront any fe**sh or diabolical charms ("juju") that might be brought against him at the Supreme Court. This statement is a direct affront to the "Onisese," a term which refers to the adherents and priests of "Isese," the indigenous religious and spiritual traditions of the Yoruba people.
The Oluwo's stance is consistent with his long-held position of advocating for a monotheistic approach to Yoruba culture, often criticizing what he terms "idolatry" and reliance on lesser deities and charms. He has frequently asserted that his faith lies solely in God Almighty, who he credits for his protection and victories.
The legal tussle over the Oluwo stool has been a protracted affair, with litigants challenging the process that led to his installation. However, with this latest victory at the Court of Appeal, Oba Akanbi's reign has received significant legal backing, setting the stage for a potential final legal battle at the Supreme Court, which the monarch appears eager to face on both legal and spiritual fronts.
