In a stunning turn of events, Oba HIM Ajibade Adewale Adegbite Akanbi, the newly crowned Alaketu of Ketu Kingdom, has narrowly escaped danger in Benin Republic and sought refuge in Yoruba land, Nigeria. The monarch’s urgent flight was prompted by a series of life-threatening attempts on his life by rival factions vying for control of the revered Ketu Kingdom throne.
Oba Ajibade recounted his harrowing ordeal, describing his kidnapping and brutal torture at the hands of a non-Yoruba faction within Benin Republic. This faction sought to seize the hallowed throne that rightfully belonged to his lineage—a lineage carefully chosen by the ancient oracle, Ifa. His multiple close brushes with death served as a chilling testament to the gravity of the peril he faced.
Sharing the details of his escape from the clutches of danger in Benin Republic, Oba Ajibade revealed that he chose to seek refuge in Nigeria’s Yoruba land rather than remain in Ketu, Republic of Benin. His decision was driven by the relentless attempts on his life by those who coveted the sacred throne of Ketu Kingdom for themselves.
Oba Ajibade further recounted the horrifying experience of being abducted and subjected to torture by a non-Yoruba sect in Benin Republic. This torment stemmed from his legitimate ascent to the throne of his forefathers. He stressed the indomitable connection of the Alaketu throne to his lineage, as ordained by Ifa. The numerous near-death escapes he encountered underscored the severe threat posed to his existence.
Preservation of Yoruba Heritage During Crisis: In a resolute affirmation of his Yoruba heritage, the monarch clarified that the origins of Alaketu could be traced back to Ile-Ife, with migration leading to its current location within the Republic of Benin. Despite this relocation, the Alaketu throne remains firmly rooted in Yoruba culture, language, and traditions.
Oba Ajibade addressed historical inaccuracies, particularly emphasizing that Alaketu, as the first son of Okanbi, stands as a true Yoruba Oba. He spotlighted the extensive lineage spread throughout Yorubaland, manifesting in various towns bearing the name Ketu, even within present-day Nigeria.
From Royal Lineage to Urgent Plea for Intervention: H.I.M Alayeluwa Oba Ajibade Adewale Adegbite Adekanbi, the Aleketu of Ketu Kingdom, hails from a lineage deeply interwoven with Ketu’s royal heritage. His journey to the throne involved multifaceted roles, culminating in his selection by the IFA oracle as the next Alaketu.
Despite gaining affirmation and acceptance from the Ketu community, orchestrated efforts led by certain minor Ketu Obas and external actors aimed to promote a non-Yoruba individual named ADESIN, an Egun man from Cotonou, as the new Alaketu. This choice lacked Yoruba lineage and affiliations but garnered support from Benin authorities.
An Appeal for the Preservation of Yoruba Legacy: Oba Ajibade’s open letter directed towards Ooni Of Ife and fellow Yoruba Obas sought urgent intervention. He highlighted the perilous implications of having a non-Yoruba, unrelated individual ascend to the revered Alaketu throne, underlining the imperative of safeguarding Yoruba heritage and lineage.
Amidst growing distress caused by escalating threats and kidnappings in Benin Republic, Alaketu HIM Alayeluwa Oba Ajibade Adebowale Adegbite Adekanbi implored the Nigerian Government and Yoruba Obas to shield his throne and legacy from the encroachment of outsiders and pretenders. His plea emphasized the gravity of a non-indigene occupying the Alaketu throne and the pressing need for collective action to ensure the sanctity of his lineage and the throne.
The monarch’s revelation of fleeing Benin Republic due to mounting intimidation and kidnappings, imperiling his life, underscores the urgency with which he turns to Nigerian authorities and fellow Yoruba Obas, seeking their unwavering support to resolve the crisis surrounding his rightful rule as the Alaketu of Ketu Kingdom
