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.