The True Measure of Kingship

This 22-stanza Yorùbá-English poem is a modern Yorùbá epic free verse that reflects on the nature of kingship, origin, and responsibility within the Oòduà civilisational sphere. Written in the context of contemporary historical events, it was inspired specifically by the period of perceived rift following the enthronement of the Aláàfin Abímbọ́lá Ọ̀wọ́adé and the reigning Ọọ̀ni Adéyẹyè Ògúnwùsì. The poem explores the ontology of kingship, situating spiritual legitimacy as foundational over political authority. It further interrogates the tension between origin and empire, wisdom and pride, unity and rivalry. Rooted in Ifá cosmology and Ọ̀yọ́ imperial historiography, the poem asserts Ilé-Ifẹ̀'s spiritual suzerainty over Ọ̀yọ́'s martial legacy, reframing Oòduà as a supranational civilisation that extends beyond Yorùbáland to include Benin, Ga-Adangbe regions, and the global diaspora. The poem redefines greatness from conquest to visionary stewardship, with emphasis on humility, unity, and progress as the enduring measures of authority. The poem functions simultaneously as a literary work, cultural historiography, political commentary, and moral-philosophical counsel intended for scholars, cultural practitioners, and literary audiences.