A first class Yoruba traditional ruler in Osun State, the Oluwo of Iwoland, Emir Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has stepped out in Emir regalia after dumping the traditional Oba title.
DAILY NIGERIAN reports that the monarch also banished some idols, including the popular one bequeathed to him by his forefathers to a shrine in the town.
Explaining the reason for dumping the title, the new emir said Iwo is a home of Islamic scholars, noting that he wore the emir regalia and turban to show the world that Iwo is an Islamic ancient town.
“When I was made the Oluwo of Iwo, I was turbaned. It is because Iwo is an Islamic ancient town. Iwo was known as ‘Geri Malami, meaning: the home of the scholars. So, this regalia is appropriate for me as the Oluwo,” he said.
Explaining his decision to ‘banish’ the idols, the young monarch said the palace was meant for him alone, and therefore should not share a space with him.
“As the monarch, I’m superior to the idols and it cannot be competing with me in the palace.
“I have taken that idol my palace to where it belong. Those who may want to worship the idols can meet them there, not in my palace.
“As you can see, there is a mosque in the palace and we can worship the God Almighty there,” he added.
