Obasanjo, prostrates before Ooni, backs his peace initiatives

Obasanjo, prostrates before Ooni, backs his
peace initiatives

Former president Olusegun Obasanjo has thrown
his weight behind the move by the Ooni of Ife,
Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi to unify the yoruba race
during his reign. It would be recalled that Ooni
Ogunwusi had been visiting Yoruba monarchs as
a way of ensuring unity. Among those visited
were the Aalafin of Oyo and Awujale of Ijebuland
among others.
Obasanjo spoke yesterday during a visitation to
the Ooni’s palace where he was received by
prominent traditional rulers in Ile-Ife. In a
dramatic move, Obasanjo who was accompanied
by other prominent personalities dressed in his
Yoruba regalia, prostrated for the Ooni as a sign
of respect. While some of those present during
the visit expressed surprise at chief Obasanjo’s
posturing, others applauded and hailed the
former president.
The former president explained that the unity
move by the Ooni was important for the progress
of Yorubaland. He urged the Ooni not to relent in
his move to ensure unity, adding that Ife
remained the source of Yorubaland. He said, “I
commend the role of Ooni in ensuring peace in
Yorubaland. Continue what you are doing,
especially your unity course. I am happy with the
move taken so far.
“It is only a sign of honour for the Ooni to visit
anyone. That does not stop Ile-Ife from its
position in the history of Yorubaland.” Obasanjo
subsequently prayed for the progress of Ife and
Yorubaland. He also apologised for not being
present at the Ooni’s coronation.
On his part, the Ooni expressed appreciation for
the former president’s visit. Among those present
during the visitation were Dr. Femi Okunnu; Femi
Majekodunmi; Chief Oyewole Fasaweye, Ayo
Balogun and a host of others.