Prominent traditional rulers from Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, led by the Onibeju of Ibejuland and Chairman of Obas and Chiefs in the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Oba Waliu Rasaki Olasunkanmi, paid a historic visit to the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Saturday.
The visit, described as a homecoming, was aimed at appreciating the Ooni’s guidance and reaffirming the deep ancestral ties between Ibeju-Lekki and Ile-Ife.
Speaking during the visit, Oba Olasunkanmi recalled how the Ooni played a pivotal role in his emergence as the Onibeju, emphasizing the spiritual significance of his anointing.
“Kabiyesi, your words were game-changers. The Oracle spoke, and you affirmed my path. That pronouncement worked like magic, giving me the courage and confidence to pursue my destiny,” he stated. The traditional ruler further noted that the prophecy was not just a prediction but a divine revelation that has shaped the trajectory of Ibeju kingdoms
He further explained that the visit was a gesture of gratitude to the Ooni for his wisdom and fatherly role in the affairs of Ibejuland. “We are here to say thank you, not only for your blessings but for your unwavering support. You have been like a father to us, offering guidance and counsel whenever needed,” Oba Olasunkanmi added.
Reiterating the historical bond between Ibejuland and Ile-Ife, the Onibeju emphasized the commitment of Ibeju kingdoms to preserving their shared heritage.
“Our ancestors trace their origins to this sacred land. It is our duty to sustain this connection and strengthen it for the benefit of our people,” he remarked. He also commended the Ooni for his relentless efforts in promoting Yoruba culture and tradition, hailing his role as a custodian of the Yoruba race.
Other traditional rulers in the delegation included the Ologunfayo of Ogunfayo Kingdom, Eputu Iwerekun, Ibeju Lekki, HRM Oba Mufutau Adewunmi Olanrewaju Idogun Tunwase I; the Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, HRM Oba Ajakaye Adeola Adeniyi, as well as chiefs and prominent sons and daughters of Ibejuland. Their presence underscored the significance of the visit as a reaffirmation of unity and shared ancestry.
In his response, the Ooni of Ife expressed his delight at receiving the delegation, describing their visit as a reaffirmation of their roots. “Seeing our children return home brings me great joy and fulfillment. Ile-Ife is the ancestral home of the Yoruba race, and it is my duty to preserve and safeguard it for all our descendants,” the Ooni stated.
The revered monarch seized the occasion to urge other Yoruba sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, to emulate the spirit of preserving their historical and cultural heritage. “The Yoruba heritage is one of the richest in the world. We must not let it fade. Let this visit serve as a call to all Yoruba people to stay connected to their roots,” he emphasized.
The visit concluded on a note of renewed commitment to cultural preservation, as the Ooni and the delegation reaffirmed their dedication to fostering unity and strengthening the Yoruba identity across generations.
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