By Capital Watch Media
The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has dismissed a viral story alleging that he lost out in a contest for the secretaryship of the South-West Traditional Rulers Council.
In a statement issued by Alli Ibraheem, his spokesperson, Oba Akanbi clarified that no such body exists and described the report as an attempt to blackmail the Oluwo and distort the truth.
The monarch emphasised that the Oluwo’s position as a paramount ruler remains unshaken.
“The story was fabricated to blackmail Oluwo and deviate from the truth he recently revealed. Truth has no alternative side. No matter the forces against it, it cannot be suppressed.”
Oba Akanbi disclosed that he was aware of discussions to establish a Southern Council of Traditional Rulers last year.
However, he stated that he declined to be part of it due to differences in approach and priorities.
“I was invited, but I declined. I am too occupied to work with a council dominated by people with different mindsets,” he stated.
“I rarely attend the Osun State Council of Traditional Rulers, as I have chosen a path of trust and honour.”
The monarch suggested that his independent stance had led to criticism.
“That is why I am hated and talked about,” he remarked. “Guess what? I don’t care.”
Reaffirming his authority, the Oluwo’s palace insisted that no one could remove him from his position.
“They have tried severally and failed. Those acting against him will continue to fail,” the palace asserted.
Oba Akanbi further stated that he was not interested in associating with individuals who seek to undermine others.
“Oluwo is not interested in mingling with those whose interest is to bring others down,” the statement emphasised.
He described the ongoing criticism as mere distractions that would not deter the monarch from his commitments.
“The backbiting and blackmailing will not divert His Majesty from the path of honour,” the statement declared.
Instead, the Oluwo views the attacks as a source of strength.
“Rather than being weakened, those stones and tantrums only strengthen him,” the palace said.
He warned those behind the allegations, stating that they might face consequences for their actions.
“Anyone who takes this warning seriously may be fortunate to escape the repercussions,” the statement cautioned.
The Oluwo’s palace reiterated that the monarch remains focused on his leadership duties and will not engage in activities that do not align with his vision for Iwoland.
