Oluwo faces criticism for unveiling head in Mecca

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has ignited debate after a video surfaced showing him praying with his head uncovered during a religious ceremony in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

While on a pilgrimage in Makkah, the monarch shared a video on social media capturing a poignant moment of him offering prayers for peace, longevity, and divine mercy.

The video drew mixed reactions, as it is traditionally expected for a Yoruba king to keep his head covered, especially in public. One follower, @fabricsbyarinola, questioned, “I thought a king must not open their head in public?”

Another user, @acube321, expressed disapproval, saying, “Kabiesi oooo, sir you are not supposed to open your head. You can’t be the custodian of Yoruba culture and still worship in the Arab way. This is intriguing. You are demeaning our culture, sir. This is too bad sir.”

Despite the backlash, some supported the Oluwo’s actions. @nadee_a_kitchen_treat commented, “See my hometown king. Everybody is equal in the presence of Almighty Allah. Islam is beautiful. May Almighty Allah accept your worship.” Similarly, @fasasiwakeel added, “I am moved emotionally by the way he was praising the King of Kings. May the Almighty Allah answer your prayers.”

Furthermore, the Oluwo faced backlash for an additional social media post, in which he shared a prayer that people would be compelled to visit Iwo with the same fervor and dedication as Muslims who embark on the pilgrimage to Makkah.

Critics challenged the Oluwo’s vision, asking what unique attractions and sufficient infrastructure Iwo has in place to attract visitors from around the world.