Ooni Congratulates New Alaafin, Charges Him To Embrace Peace

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Abimbola Owoade, to prioritize unity and peace as he ascends the throne of the ancient Oyo kingdom.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, on Saturday, the Ooni described Owoade’s emergence as a historic moment symbolizing prosperity, cultural preservation, and unity for the Oyo people.

Naijaonpoint reports that Oba Ogunwusi expressed confidence in Owoade’s capacity to build upon the legacy of his predecessors, especially the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Atanda Adeyemi III, whose reign was marked by exemplary leadership.

“The Ooni’s palace commends the patience displayed by the royal family, kingmakers, and the people of Oyo, both at home and in the diaspora, throughout this sacred process, which lasted over two years. The Oyo State Government, under Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership, also deserves accolades for providing an enabling environment for this smooth transition,” the statement read.

Highlighting the historical ties between Oyo and Ile-Ife, the Ooni emphasized the interconnected lineage of the two kingdoms.

“Oyo and Ile-Ife share an unbreakable bond rooted in divine origin and Yoruba cultural preservation. Oyo remains a significant crown jewel in Yoruba land. The appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade signifies the continuation of this sacred bond and the unwavering strength of the Yoruba cultural legacy,” the monarch noted.

A Call For Unity And Justice

Oba Ogunwusi called on the new Alaafin to unite all stakeholders in the Oyo kingdom, including those who opposed his ascension, urging him to lead with magnanimity and fairness.

“Now that you have emerged victorious, you have become the father of all. You must rally all other contestants for the growth of the Oyo kingdom because you cannot do it alone. Oyomesi must remain united under your watch, whether they supported you or not. Be magnanimous in victory,” the Ooni advised.

He also charged the Alaafin-elect to foster cooperation with the kingmakers and to prioritize justice and development for the people.

“Your ascension is a testament to the resilience of our traditions and the shared aspiration for progress across the Yoruba race. Please be ready to toe the path of peace with all the kingmakers without favoritism or partiality so that you can serve your people as a beacon of hope, justice, and development,” the Ooni concluded.