In a posthumous audio recording obtained by SaharaReporters, Chief Arounfale emotionally recounted his harrowing experience at the Alaafin’s palace.

A Yoruba traditional ruler based in the United States, His Royal Highness Chief Lukman Ojora Arounfale, the Baba Oba of Oyotunji African Village in South Carolina, has died following an alleged assault ordered by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.

The reported assault occurred at the Alaafin's palace and has been linked to a violent fallout between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, over matters of royal supremacy.

Chief Arounfale—an American citizen who had lived in the United States for over four decades—was allegedly attacked alongside his wife and driver after a meeting at the palace on April 17, 2025. The injuries he sustained reportedly led to his death. His family and supporters have publicly accused the Alaafin of masterminding the brutal attack.

Speaking on behalf of the campaign group Justice for Baba Oba, the Secretary-General described how Chief Arounfale was lured to the palace under false pretences and then violently assaulted in a room filled with palace guards and aides, allegedly acting on Oba Owoade’s orders.

In a posthumous audio recording obtained by SaharaReporters, Chief Arounfale emotionally recounted his harrowing experience at the Alaafin’s palace.