The Olugbo of Ugbo land, His Imperial Majesty Oghone Oba (Dr) F.E.O Akinruntan CON, FICA, FNIM took his majestic time to discuss the historic relevance of the throne of Olugbo as the oldest throne in Yoruba Land during a Press briefing organized for his historical book authored by himself titled “A History of the Oldest Throne in Yoruba Land”.
The elegantly styled Oba who took time out to relate with the press at his palace in Ode-Ugbo, Ondo State stated that the Olugbo is the first monarch of Yoruba Land and should have been regarded as such but the colonial masters and academicians have distorted the facts in a bid to confuse history. He noted that “A History of the Oldest Throne in Yoruba Land” was borne out of the irresistible desire to correct history and the book’s credibility is derived from its roots in empirical, scientific as well as historical evidences. He remarked that the market of Ile Ife known as the Oja Osan-gangan lends credence to the dynasty of the Olugbo and Ile Ugbo still exist in the Palace of Ile Ife till date; furthermore, the Original Crown of Ile Ife is in Ugbo Land.
Oba Akinruntan stated that he does not intend to start any form of rivalry with the traditional rulers of Yoruba Land but challenged anybody with a better evidence of the history of Yoruba Land to engage him in a peaceful discussion. The assertions of the Oba was confirmed by a foremost professor of History at Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Akin Alao who was present at the Press Briefing. He professed that it is the history and not the tradition of Yoruba land that is being contended with scientific facts.
While answering questions from Ekimogunmirror, his Imperial Majesty stated that efforts are in place to ensure that this authentic account of history is included in the School curriculum for the sake of generations yet unborn. He further stated that Ugbo Land is naturally blessed with so many gift of nature and its potentials will be maximized to the level of turning it into a tourist center for Nigerians and Foreigners.