Yorubas’ Ancestral Origin Beyond Ile-Ife- Oluwo

Osogbo, Osun State – The Oluwo of Iwo land, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, has ignited a heated debate after making a bold assertion that the Yoruba people are not originally from Ile-Ife.

In a statement released by the monarch, he argued that the historical roots of the Yoruba tribe extend far beyond the confines of Ile-Ife in Osun State, a view that challenges widely held beliefs about Yoruba ancestry.

The Oluwo of Iwo, known for his outspoken nature and unconventional views, has urged historians researching Yoruba ancestral origins to approach their work with objectivity.

According to Oba Akanbi, the Yoruba people are not confined to a single geographical location but rather are synonymous with distinction, excellence, and greatness that transcends boundaries.

“Yorubas are naturally from greatness. Humanity started from us. We are the descendants of Lamurudu, the first mightiest man to build the tallest house. Our history is beyond Oduduwa and Ile-Ife. Limiting our history to the duo is tantamount to restraining our ancestors from great accomplishments and achievements of the past.

“I challenge Professors of Yorubas to research on the origin and originality of Oduduwa. We have to objectively trace his lineage and origin. He came from somewhere before he settled at Ile-Ife.

“This implies that Yorubas are not originally from Ile-Ife. In documenting the history of the Yorubas, all ancient crowns and stakeholders with genuine interest must be incorporated. We are victor, great and rich. Hence, we must establish our origin to be greater and richer than our forebears.”

“Yoruba ancestors/ancestral home, to be accepted, must be traced to pure, unadulterated Yoruba speaking ancient towns which their intonation can be a device to write and pass Yoruba examinations with recognized bodies such as JAMB, WAEC and NECO.” he said

Oluwo believes that limiting the focus of such research to Ile-Ife is a disservice to the Yoruba people’s rich historical tapestry.