August 10, 2024.
By Samuel Ogunsona
In a momentous gathering at the Ile Oodua’s Palace, Ile-Ife, traditional rulers of the Yoruba Okun descendants from Kogi and Kwara states has implored Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, to champion their pursuit of recognition and acknowledgment among all Yoruba kingdoms.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Ooni’s Director, Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, made available to The YorubaTimes on Friday.
The august visitors led by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Dele Owoniyi, presented to the Ooni the new Elulu of Mopa, Oba (Dr.) Muyiwa Ibeun, who recently ascended the throne of his ancestors.
The Obaro of Kabba, Oba Dele Owoniyi in his statement described Ile-Ife as the undisputed home of all Yoruba people particularly those of Okun origin.
He further stated that Ooni Ogunwusi has done so well in giving all descendants of Oduduwa an enviable identity and real sense of belonging anywhere in the world.
“Kabiyesi, we have a lot of work to do for our people with regards to where we found ourselves in modern Nigeria. There are real issues of development deficit which I am sure we can overcome with your might and influence.
“Please be assured that our loyalty to the ancient throne of Oduduwa is never in doubt.” The Obaro of Kabba noted.
The newly crowned Elulu of Mopa, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun, in his statement praised the Arole Oodua for his love and support which he said preceded his emergence as a Monarch.
According to him “This is homecoming for me and my colleagues here, we are here to thank Your Imperial Majesty as well as commending you for dignifying the prestigious traditional institution.
Also, the Elejuku of (Kogi State), explained that most children of Oduduwa of Okun origin are at great disadvantage as they are often regarded as second or third Yoruba.
“Kabiyesi Ooni, we are tired of being referred to as lesser Yoruba because of our location, those who demarcated us in those days did not consult us and that is why they did not factor in our peculiarities.
“We want you to use your connection and position to return us home and reunite us with our kinsmen. We are your children and we cannot afford to be regarded as lesser descendants of Oduduwa.” The monarch noted.
The stance was buttressed by the Olusin of Isin (Kwara State), Oba Solomon Oloyede who added that the Ooni must not relent in ensuring that all descendants of Oduduwa are in perfect condition at all times.
However, the visiting Monarchs used the opportunity expressed concerns about development deficits and sought the Ooni’s influence to address these challenges.
They emphasized their loyalty to the throne of Oduduwa and sought recognition as equal descendants, free from discrimination.
Responding to the visiting monarchs and their subjects, Ooni Ogunwusi who is the Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) explained that the most important thing is for Okun Yorubas to know and note that they are well appreciated by their kinsmen in the western part of the country.
Oba Ogunwusi in his statement reassured them stating, “You are not lesser, second or third Yorubas. You are true descendants of Oduduwa with history of hard work and noble background which I am sure you carry with pride. We shall work together for development, peace and tranquility of our respective domains” He said.
