Ooni Receives Osun ADC Governorship Candidate Najeem Salaam, Offers Royal Blessings

The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has received the gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, Dr. Najeem Salaam, at the historic Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife.

 

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the ADC flagbearer arrived at the palace in company of party leaders, loyalists, and supporters.

 

Dr. Salaam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, was warmly received by the Ooni alongside a delegation of prominent traditional rulers from across Osun State.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Salaam expressed deep reverence for the throne of Oduduwa and sought royal blessings ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.

He emphasized his commitment to restoring the dignity of traditional institutions and integrating them into governance for sustainable development.

 

He said, “Kabiesi, I have God and you. I believe with that, all things are possible. I have come to seek your royal blessings. If I am privileged to emerge as governor, I will ensure that the lost values of our society are restored. What is largely affecting us in Yorubaland today is the neglect and lack of proper regard for our traditional rulers. Our indigenous systems, which we have sidelined, hold the key to solving many of our societal challenges.”

The former lawmaker further assured that his administration would prioritize the welfare and constitutional recognition of traditional rulers, noting that he had consistently advocated for their rights, including

issues surrounding local government allocations, during his time in public office.

Addressing the issue of security, Dr. Salaam proposed the establishment of a community-based policing structure, particularly leveraging the traditional institution through local hunters and vigilante groups.

 

According to him, such a system, operating under the supervision of traditional rulers, would significantly enhance grassroots security across the state.

In his response, the Ooni of Ife commended Dr. Salaam for his humility, respect for tradition, and demonstrated understanding of the values that underpin Yoruba heritage.

 

The Ooni Ogunwusi described him as a true Omoluabi whose approach to leadership reflects integrity, responsibility, and cultural consciousness.

 

Ooni Ogunwusi urged the governorship candidate to remain steadfast in his commitment to the people and to always accord due respect to traditional institutions, which he described as indispensable pillars of governance and societal stability.

 

The Ooni further stressed the need for synergy between political office holders and traditional rulers, noting that sustainable development and lasting peace can only be achieved when both institutions work collaboratively.

 

He thereafter offered royal blessings for Dr. Najeem Salaam, invoking divine guidance, wisdom, and success in his political aspirations.