The Asaoni of Ora Igbomina, Oba Johnson Adekanmi Abikoye, has declared the Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula & Permanent Chairman of the South West Traditional Council of Nigeria Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II as the undisputed and supreme head of all Yoruba monarchs, reaffirming Ile-Ife as the ancestral source of kingship in Yorubaland.
He stated at the palace of Ile Oodua on Wednesday when the Commander-General of Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Dr Joshua Osatimehin visited the Ooni.
While speaking, Oba Abikoye described his presence as symbolic and significant, stating that unlike others, his return to Ile-Ife was not as a mere guest, but as a son returning home to the cradle of royalty.
He said, “When I first came here, I came as a prince. But today, I am here as a king. This is where we receive our crown. According to our tradition, we must come to the Ooni to receive the date of installation before it is taken to the state governor”.
The monarch lauded the revered position of the Ooni within the Yoruba traditional hierarchy, stating unequivocally that “without any argument, the Ooni remains the head of all kings in Yorubaland. There is no controversy. All facts indicate clearly that we are all from Ile-Ife”.
The Asaoni’s comments drew admiration from the palace chiefs and guests present, many of whom echoed his sentiments on the cultural and historical significance of Ile-Ife as the origin of the Yoruba race.
The Ooni, in response, welcomed the Asaoni warmly and appreciated the honour bestowed upon the palace, reiterating his commitment to preserving Yoruba tradition and promoting peace across the land.