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UK recognises Alaafin as Yoruba supreme ruler, Owoade tells Ooni

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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, on Thursday, declared that the British had signed a treaty with Alaafin recognising him as the superior head of the Yoruba Nation.

This followed a fresh crisis between the Alaafin and Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, after the Ooni conferred the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on a businessman, Dotun Sanusi, during the unveiling of 2geda media networking platform, at Ilaji Hotel, Ibadan, at the weekend.

Condemning Ooni’s action on Monday, Alaafin had, in a statement by his Director of Media, Bode Durojaye, given the Ife monarch a 48-hour ultimatum to withdraw the chieftaincy title or face “the consequences”.

The Ooni has, however, kept mum on the matter, even as the ultimatum expired on Wednesday.

In a fresh statement by his media aide, Durojaye, on Thursday, the Alaafin went historical, asserting that he remains the foremost monarch in Yoruba land.

Alaafin said, “Oyo simply rose to prominence through wealth gained from trade and its military skills. It was the largest West African empire, the most important and authoritative of all the early Yoruba principalities. More so, the British, as it was in their tradition, recognised lineage as meaningful supremacy and legitimacy, preferring to sign the Treaty of Cessation with the Alaafin as the Superior Head of the Yoruba Nation.

“Alaafin has sworn to his ancestors to defend and add glamour to Yoruba tradition; he would never be in a supremacy battle with any king.

“Why does Alaafin not need to get into any battle for supremacy with any Oba, either in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe? These immortal words of Alexander Graham Bell – The most successful men in the end are those whose success is the result of steady accretion.”

The Thursday stated that the Alaafin, “at the hallowed ground of the Yoruba ancient shrine…made a covenant with illustrious Yoruba ancestors that he would defend, protect and add glamour to the Yoruba norms and tradition.”

The statement stressed that the Alaafin “is a veritable custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition, and has always taken into consideration the safety and welfare of his subjects and will never compromise tradition, culture and development of his people for a pot of porridge.”

It stated: “The history has been so kind and friendly to Alaafin Owoade publicity since he ascended the throne of his forefathers, as he does not need to get into any battle for supremacy with any oba, either in Yorubaland or anywhere in the universe.

“The monarch operates a government that is judged by its result, as prosperity, security, and well-being of the people dictate his popularity both in the palace and in the empire at large.”

The statement also launched into heavy praises of the Alaafin, stating that: “Alaafin combines humility with royalty to meet the modern-day demands. Kabiyesi (the king who no one questions). Iku Baba Yeye (the one who commands death/he who is parent to death). Alashe (he who wields authority). Ekeji Orisha (Second-in-command to the gods). The Alaafin was inducted into the mysteries of various gods like Ifa, Sango, etc, to be the direct representative of these deities on earth.”

“At the hallowed ground of the Yoruba ancient shrine, as Owoade made a covenant with illustrious Yoruba ancestors that he would defend, protect and add glamour to the Yoruba norms and tradition. Oduduwa’s Principal minister and grandson, Oranmiyan (Because Oduduwa begot Okanbi, an only child, and Okanbi begot Oranmiyan, among others, namely Ila-Orangun, Oni-Sabe, Olu-Popo, Ala-Ketu, Oba-Benin) founded the city of Oyo when a prolonged drought struck Ile-Ife as a result of people’s emigration.

“In politics also, he is concerned about the sanctity of his position, and whatever happens on the welfare of his people. Customs and all traditional practices of today in government, religion and economic life have had distance, and possibly age-long origins which were based on valid and accepted tenets that emerged from the synthesis and aggregated experience of a particular society.

“One of such societies is the ancient city of Oyo, reputed for cultural resources that are of rich non-material and material attributes and transmitted through generations. Moreover, the precepts and concepts of Alaafin’s administration have continued to support and nurture the people’s ancient culture and sophisticated civilisation from time immemorial.

“The basic concept of government was monarchy with a rigid adherence to the monolithic Oduduwa dynasty and of the paternal line,” the statement explained.

Sheath your swords, Olugbon urges

Meanwhile, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, on Thursday, called on supporters of both the Alaafin and the Ooni to halt the ongoing media comments fuelling the controversy between the monarchs.

Oba Alao, in a statement in Ibadan on Thursday, also cautioned all Yoruba sons and daughters across the world to avoid emotional outbursts that drag the throne of the Ooni and Alaafin in the mud over what he described as speculative title conferment on Sanusi.

He said, “The latest controversy over the speculative conferment of Okanlomo of Yoruba land on one of our illustrious sons, Dotun Sanusi, who is the proprietor of Ilaji Resort and Sports Centre, Ibadan, is unnecessary.

“There is no substance in the issue because it was a mere speculation. I am in touch with both Alaafin and Ooni, and I can confirm that both traditional rulers are not interested in dragging the issue. They are both for peace and unity. I have said it before that Ooni remains Ooni, and Alaafin remains Alaafin. There is no supremacy battle.

“I, therefore, appeal to all Yoruba sons and daughters all over the world to be calm, avoid nursing any pain on the issue and stop the media comments that are dragging the controversy unnecessarily.”

The Olugbon noted that Yoruba culture is built around unity, peace, kindness, respect for others and honour for obas, saying, “Dragging one another in the media over a speculative issue runs against our moral fabrics, honour for the thrones of both obas,  and the sense of togetherness that stands us out as a people.”

“Obas’ thrones are too sacred to be desecrated by all and sundry. I urge us to keep the sanctity of our thrones, which represent the totality of who we are. Let us continue to uphold the omoluabi ethos in all situations,” he said.

In a related development, a group, Think Yoruba First Ogo Adulawo Socio-Cultural Association, on Thursday, called for a more accurate and respectful representation of Yoruba culture to protect its historical legacy and identity.

Addressing a press conference, TYF’s Lead Legal Consultant, Mr. Oluwatobi Sanwo, warned that distorted narratives pose a serious threat to the intellectual integrity and global perception of Yoruba civilisation.

He explained that the conference was convened to highlight cultural defamation and historical distortion against the Yoruba people, found in a recently published academic book.

According to him, the book falsely claims that the non-Yoruba group were original inhabitants of Ile-Ife, alleging Yoruba were immigrants who usurped authority in their ancestral home.

Other falsehoods, he noted, included a fabricated empire preceding Ile-Ife, assertions unsupported by Ifa Corpus, oral traditions, or credible historical and anthropological research.

Sanwo condemned the distortions as cultural defamation, intellectual dishonesty, and potential ethnic provocation.

He stressed that Ile-Ife remained the undisputed cradle of Yoruba civilisation, recognised worldwide by scholars and authorities.

He said TYF had submitted petitions to Nigerian and international institutions, while raising public awareness to defend Yoruba heritage and intellectual truth against distortion and falsified narratives.

The association urged Yoruba people worldwide to unite in defence of Ile-Ife, while calling on the media to responsibly promote authentic Yoruba history and scholarship.

Sanwo reaffirmed TYF’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and collaboration with traditional rulers, academics, and the press, insisting Yoruba history was sacred, Ile-Ife non-negotiable, and identity indivisible.

The association also appealed to government agencies, universities, and international cultural organisations to support Yoruba scholarship, fund research, and strengthen frameworks preserving African histories and indigenous knowledge systems.

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Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji “Sisi Quadri”: Life and Legacy of a Yoruba Comic Actor

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Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri, was a beloved Nigerian actor and comedian who left a memorable mark in the Yoruba film industry. Known for his quick wit, distinctive comic style, and sharp-tongued roles, he brought joy and laughter to audiences through films and online skits that resonated across generations.

Early Life and Education

Sisi Quadri was born in Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria. While details about his early education are not widely documented, his Yoruba upbringing in Iwo strongly shaped his cultural identity. This background later influenced his acting style, his comedic delivery, and his connection with grassroots audiences.

Career

Sisi Quadri rose to prominence in the Yoruba Nollywood scene, where he became known for playing flamboyant, humorous, and often insult-driven characters. His breakthrough performance in the Yoruba epic Seniyan Seranko earned him recognition for his sharp dialogue and unique comedic brilliance.

Beyond films, he also embraced the digital era by featuring in online skits, where his expressive style and mastery of Yoruba humor made him a favorite among younger audiences. His ability to balance traditional Yoruba film acting with contemporary comedy culture ensured his relevance across different entertainment platforms.

Personal Life

Though widely celebrated on screen, Sisi Quadri lived a relatively private personal life. He remained deeply connected to his hometown of Iwo and was known for his strong ties to family and community. His humility off-screen contrasted with the bold, comedic personas he portrayed in movies and skits.

Death and Burial

Sisi Quadri passed away on March 1, 2024, at the age of 44. Reports stated he died after a brief illness, though the exact cause was not publicly confirmed. He was buried in his hometown of Iwo, Osun State, in line with local traditions and family wishes. His passing drew widespread mourning across Nigeria’s entertainment community, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, fans, and cultural stakeholders.

Legacy

Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji is remembered as one of Yoruba Nollywood’s standout comic actors. His trademark ability to deliver humor through satire and exaggeration made him a household name. Importantly, he also bridged the gap between traditional Yoruba cinema and modern online comedy, inspiring younger comedians who now blend stage performance with viral skits.

His performances continue to circulate widely on digital platforms, ensuring his comedic spirit lives on. For many, Sisi Quadri remains a symbol of Yoruba comic excellence and a reminder of the enduring power of humor in Nigerian storytelling.

Sources

Pulse Nigeria – Yoruba comic actor Sisi Quadri dies at 44

The Nation – Sisi Quadri: Yoruba actor passes on

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Kunle Adetokunbo “Dejo Tunfulu”: Life, Career and Untimely Death of a Yoruba Comic Star

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Kunle Adetokunbo, widely known by his stage name Dejo Tunfulu, was one of Nigeria’s most beloved Yoruba actors and comedians. Renowned for his witty performances and ability to capture the humor of everyday life, he carved a special place in Nollywood’s Yoruba film industry. His death on April 1, 2022, at the age of forty nine, left fans and colleagues in deep shock.

Early Life and Education

Kunle Adetokunbo was born on May 31, 1972, in Idumota on Lagos Island, Lagos State. He attended Ansar Ud Deen Primary School in Lagos for his basic education and later studied at Dolphin High School in Ebute Metta. Afterward, he trained in printing at the Modern Way Nigeria School of Printing in Lagos, developing a professional skill alongside his passion for drama and comedy.

Career and Rise to Fame

Dejo Tunfulu began acting in the late 1980s, starting with local theatre groups in Lagos. His breakthrough came when he joined the Akuko Gagara Theatre Group and appeared in television productions such as Apere Ijongbon.

The nickname “Dejo Tunfulu” originated from his role as a stammerer in stage plays, a comic portrayal that resonated strongly with audiences. Over time, the name became his enduring stage identity.

He went on to feature in numerous Yoruba films including Hally The Drummer, Ito, Won Tun Ro, and Ejide. His characters often combined humor, mischief, and satire, earning him recognition as one of the Yoruba film industry’s finest comic actors. Beyond traditional films, his style also inspired modern skit makers and comedians who saw him as a bridge between stage comedy and Nollywood screen acting.

Personal Life

Dejo Tunfulu was married and had children, though he kept his family life largely private. Colleagues described him as a devoted family man and a cheerful presence on set. Reports indicated that he lost his first wife years before his own passing, a personal tragedy that deeply affected him.

Illness and Death

In the period leading up to his death, Dejo Tunfulu was reported to have battled kidney related illness. Despite efforts to manage his condition, he passed away on April 1, 2022, at the age of forty nine. His death was confirmed by fellow actors and filmmakers on social media, and tributes poured in across the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Legacy

Dejo Tunfulu left an indelible mark on Yoruba Nollywood. His unique comic style drew from the rhythms of Lagos street life and everyday Yoruba expressions, blending them into performances that were both authentic and entertaining. Younger actors and comedians continue to cite him as an influence, ensuring that his craft and creativity remain part of the Yoruba comic tradition.

His passing created a significant void in Nollywood comedy, yet his films and performances continue to remind audiences of his gift for evoking laughter. For many, his name remains synonymous with joy and lighthearted entertainment.

Sources

Punch Nigeria – Actor Dejo Tunfulu dies at 49
Vanguard Nigeria – Yoruba actor Dejo Tunfulu passes on
PM News Nigeria – Tributes pour in for Yoruba comic actor Dejo Tunfulu

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Babatunde Omidina “Baba Suwe”: Life, Legacy and Struggles of a Comedy Legend

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Babatunde Omidina, popularly known by his stage name Baba Suwe, was one of Nigeria’s most celebrated comedians and actors, particularly in Yoruba Nollywood. His career blended humor, cultural storytelling, and relatable performances that endeared him to millions. While his life was marked by great creative success, it was also shaped by legal struggles and health challenges that tested his resilience.

Early Life, Family and Education

Baba Suwe was born on August 22, 1958, on Inabere Street, Lagos Island. Though he grew up in Lagos, he traced his roots to Ikorodu in Lagos State.

He began his education at Jamaitul Islamia Primary School in Lagos before attending a children’s boarding school in Osogbo. For secondary school, he enrolled at Adekanbi Commercial High School in Mile 12, Lagos, and later completed his West African School Certificate at Ifeoluwa Grammar School in Osogbo.

Some reports suggest he left formal education at Form Four due to his growing interest in theatre and performance. He was the only child of his parents, both of whom were traders.

Career and Rise to Stardom

Baba Suwe’s passion for acting began while he was still a student. He joined the Osumare Theatre Group and performed in stage plays, including Baoku. He began acting professionally around 1971 but rose to prominence with the film Omolasan, which was produced in Obalende.

His career breakthrough came with Iru Esin, produced by Olaiya Igwe in 1997, which established him as one of Yoruba Nollywood’s finest comic actors.

Over the years, Baba Suwe appeared in and produced numerous Yoruba films including Baba Jaiye Jaiye, Oju Oloju, Baba Londoner, and Aso Ibora. His style was defined by his ability to embody ordinary characters—often servants, guards, or everyday people—using humor, wit, and cultural nuance to reflect the experiences of Yoruba society.

Legal Troubles and Health Battles

In October 2011, Baba Suwe was arrested by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Lagos Airport on suspicion of cocaine trafficking. He was detained for several days, but the allegations were eventually dismissed. A Lagos High Court later ruled that the arrest was false and defamatory. Baba Suwe’s lawyer in the case was the late human rights advocate Bamidele Aturu.

The arrest deeply affected his reputation and, according to many colleagues and family members, contributed to a decline in his health. In subsequent years, he battled diabetes and related complications.

In 2019, he traveled to the United States for medical treatment, funded in part by donations from philanthropists and public figures. By 2021, reports indicated that he was struggling with mobility and required assistance with daily activities.

Death and Funeral

Baba Suwe died on November 22, 2021, at the age of sixty three. His son, Adesola Omidina, confirmed the news on social media.

He was buried at his residence in Ikorodu, Lagos State, beside his late wife, Mosurat Omidina, popularly known as Moladun Kenkelewu. His funeral was attended by colleagues, Islamic clerics, family members, and fans. Though debates arose regarding burial rites—including the use of a coffin, which diverges from traditional Islamic practice—his family and the entertainment community sought to honor him in a way befitting his stature as a cultural icon.

Legacy and Impact

Baba Suwe is remembered as a pioneer of Yoruba comedy in Nollywood, with a career that spanned decades and shaped the industry’s approach to humor. His characters reflected the lives of everyday people, and his timing and improvisational skills made him a household name.

Beyond his comedic legacy, his life story sheds light on the struggles of Nigerian entertainers, from inadequate health support to the consequences of wrongful persecution. His ordeal with the NDLEA and subsequent health decline remain cautionary tales in discussions of justice and celebrity welfare in Nigeria.

Today, his films continue to entertain audiences and inspire younger comedians. His name lives on as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of laughter in Nigerian cinema.

Sources

Punch Nigeria – “Rise to stardom, health battles, other things to know about comic actor Baba Suwe”
NaijaBeats – “The life and career of Baba Suwe”

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