Tensions are escalating within the Nigerian diaspora community in the United States, as calls intensify for an independent investigation into the tragic death of Chief Lukman Ojora Arounfale, a prominent Yoruba traditional leader based in the U.S.
Arounfale, who was allegedly assaulted on orders from the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, died after sustaining injuries during a visit to the Oyo Palace on April 17, 2025.
The late Arounfale served as the Baba Oba (Royal Father) of Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina and had been a U.S. resident for over 40 years.
He passed away nine days after the attack, on April 26, 2025. In response, a group called Justice for Baba Oba Oyotunji has emerged, demanding justice and planning a solidarity march to honor him.
They are decrying what they call a politically-motivated royal assault rooted in deeper tensions over Yoruba royal supremacy, particularly between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
The Fatal Visit
In a posthumous voice recording obtained by SaharaReporters, Arounfale recounted the horrifying details of his visit to the palace. He explained that he was lured to the palace under false pretenses by a man named Almorufu Yekini, who claimed to represent the Alaafin. Upon his arrival, Arounfale was stripped of his traditional beads, questioned about his royal title, and accused of espionage on behalf of the Ooni of Ife.
The situation quickly escalated into violence. According to Arounfale’s account, palace aides beat him severely and even threw him down a staircase. His wife and driver were also attacked. His wife corroborated the abuse, stating that they were slapped, detained, and locked in a room. She pleaded with the Alaafin’s wife for help, but was told they had come with “evil intent.”
A Deeper Dispute Over Royal Authority
The assault is believed to be linked to a longstanding dispute over the spiritual and political legitimacy of Yoruba monarchs. Arounfale’s supporters argue that the Alaafin’s anger was fueled by the Oyotunji leader’s acknowledgment of the Ooni of Ife as the source of his royal authority, not the Oyo palace. This controversy highlights the deeper rivalries within the Yoruba monarchy, where claims to spiritual and cultural leadership are often contested.
The Diaspora Community Demands Justice
The Justice for Baba Oba Oyotunji campaign has called for both the Nigerian and U.S. governments to launch a thorough investigation into Arounfale’s death. The group has demanded that charges be brought against the Alaafin and his palace aides, stating, “This is not just a Nigerian issue; a U.S. citizen was killed on Nigerian soil due to royal bigotry.”
In addition to their call for justice, the group has outlined an Acceleration Agenda, which includes holding memorial vigils, media campaigns, and international petitions to hold those responsible accountable.
The campaign has also pointed out that Arounfale’s death comes just a year after the passing of his predecessor, Oba Adejuyigbe Adefunmi II, further highlighting the systemic threats faced by the Oyotunji African Village monarchy.
U.S. Government Response
At the time of writing, there has been no official statement from the U.S. State Department regarding the incident. However, sources within the Nigerian diaspora community have reportedly submitted a dossier, including the voice recording, to U.S. authorities and human rights organizations.
Oyotunji Community in Mourning
Oyotunji African Village, the first African-style monarchy established by African Americans in the U.S., is in mourning. The community plans to organize a solidarity march in South Carolina to honor their late monarch and demand justice from both Nigerian and U.S. authorities.
Political Reactions in Nigeria
Back in Nigeria, political observers have noted that this incident could reignite debates about the recognition of diaspora monarchies and the accountability of traditional rulers. Analysts suggest that the crisis may also prompt a broader discussion about the role of Nigerian royal institutions in the diaspora and the limits of immunity for monarchs accused of wrongdoing.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Tunde Akinsola, a Lagos-based royal historian, commented on the case, saying, “If confirmed, this incident would be unprecedented. A traditional ruler in the U.S. allegedly killed over royal legitimacy? The tension between Oyo and Ife must be addressed diplomatically.”
What’s Next?
As the situation continues to garner attention, all eyes are on Nigerian law enforcement agencies and the federal government. Will they intervene impartially in this high-profile case involving one of the nation’s most revered royal institutions? Or will this tragedy become another unresolved mystery hidden beneath the veil of tradition?
The Oyotunji community, alongside Nigerians in the diaspora, continues to demand justice, as a king has fallen—not in battle, but allegedly as a victim of betrayal.
