Northern Yoruba Obas Express Concerns to Ooni Regarding Preservation of Identity, Dignity

Traditional rulers of Yoruba heritage from the northern regions of Nigeria have appealed to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to maintain their connection.

During a courtesy visit to the Ooni in Ile-Ife, these monarchs, primarily from Kwara and Kogi States in the North Central area, expressed their need for support from their kinsmen to preserve their ties to their ancestral heritage.

A statement from the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, indicated that the delegation was led to the Ile-Oodua palace by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Dele Owoniyi. In his address, Oba Owoniyi remarked, “Kabiyesi, we have significant work ahead of us concerning the challenges we face in contemporary Nigeria.

There are pressing issues related to development that I am confident we can address with your strength and influence. Our loyalty to the ancient throne of Oduduwa remains unwavering.”

Supporting the Obaro’s sentiments, the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun, stated that the monarchs from the northern region look to the Ooni for guidance, adding, “This visit is a homecoming for my colleagues and me; we are here to express our gratitude to Your Imperial Majesty and to commend you for elevating the esteemed traditional institution.”

Furthermore, the Elejuku of Ejuku (Kogi State) highlighted the challenges faced by many descendants of Oduduwa of Okun origin, who are often perceived as inferior within the Yoruba community.

“Kabiyesi Ooni, we are weary of being labeled as lesser Yoruba due to our geographical location; those who established these boundaries did not consult us, neglecting our unique circumstances.

We urge you to leverage your influence to help us return to our roots and reunite with our kinsmen.

We are your children and cannot accept being viewed as lesser descendants of Oduduwa,” the monarch emphasized.

The position was supported by the Olusin of Isin, Kwara State, Oba Solomon Oloyede, who emphasized the significance of the Ooni’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being and prosperity of all descendants of Oduduwa.

In response, Oba Ogunwusi expressed his gratitude to the monarchs, acknowledging the profound recognition and appreciation they received from their kinsmen in the southwest region.