Oyo Prince Rahman Oladigbolu: A Christian Can Be Alaafin
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Rahman Oladigbolu, a US-based award-winning movie director and prince of the Oyo kingdom, has expressed his belief that there should be no barrier to a Christian being appointed as the Alaafin of Oyo. His comments came during an interview with 90MinutesAfrica, hosted by Rudolf Okonkwo, where he discussed the ongoing consideration of a new king for the region.
Reflecting on the tradition in Oyo, where the Alaafin has historically been a Muslim, Oladigbolu noted that there are now Christian candidates for the position, sparking discussions about the possibility of a Christian monarch. He stated, “Of course, if you can have a Muslim Alaafin, I see no reason why you can’t have a Christian Alaafin.”
In his remarks, Oladigbolu criticized the divisive nature of organized religion, suggesting that it often leads to significant societal divides. He voiced a hope that society might evolve to the point where religion would not be a relevant criterion in discussions about leadership and other social interactions.
“The whole point should be to ensure that people would not be talking about religion in issues like this,” he said, while acknowledging the complexities introduced by those who seek to impose their religious beliefs onto others. He emphasized that this imposition creates ongoing conflict, which complicates the selection of the new Alaafin.
Oladigbolu pointed to education and enlightenment as key solutions to overcoming divisions rooted in organized religion. “It is only enlightenment that can carry people to the point where religious considerations no longer matter in societal affairs,” he explained. He believes that when people reach a state of understanding where religious identity does not influence perceptions, societal harmony can be achieved.
By highlighting these issues, Oladigbolu aims to encourage a broader dialogue about inclusiveness and unity within the community, particularly regarding leadership roles that have traditionally been tied to specific religious identities.
