Alaafin declares Brazilian woman’s Yemoja title invalid

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has declared invalid a traditional title conferred on Brazilian national Paola Almeida Ferreira by Yemoja worshippers in Oyo.

According to Sahara Reporters, Ferreira received the title “Yeye Atayese Oniyemoja of Oyo Land” on August 23, 2026.

In a statement dated August 26, the Alaafin said the conferment was made without the palace’s approval and therefore violated Oyo’s traditional customs.

“This statement is to certify… that any traditional title can’t be conferred without the awareness and permission of the authority of the Alaafin,” Oba Owoade said.

He subsequently declared the title “OFFICIALLY INVALID.”