Historic Reunion: Ooni And Alaafin Seal New Era Of Yoruba Unity In Lagos

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, on Friday held a landmark meeting in Lagos, reaffirming their shared commitment to the unity and progress of the Yoruba nation.

According to Ireporter Online, the meeting was convened by the Odole-Oodua, Sir Kessington Adebutu, at the Eko Hotel Signature Building as part of Adebutu’s birthday celebration.

In a joint communiqué released after the session, both revered monarchs underscored the need for peace, mutual respect, and collective advancement among Yoruba people worldwide. They also announced the establishment of a Joint Council of Yoruba Unity, an initiative aimed at promoting peacebuilding, preserving Yoruba heritage, and enhancing socioeconomic development across the region.

The statement from the Ooni’s palace described the gathering as a defining moment in Yoruba history, emphasizing that true greatness could only be achieved through dialogue, unity, and cooperation. “We are committed to sustaining harmony among all Yoruba sons and daughters and to preserving the values of respect and brotherhood passed down by our ancestors,” the communiqué stated.

The meeting drew the presence of eminent Yoruba traditional rulers, leaders, and cultural custodians, who applauded the renewed spirit of solidarity between the two royal thrones. Participants also encouraged continued collaboration to strengthen inter-kingdom ties and foster cultural and economic growth.

In a symbolic gesture, both the Ooni and Alaafin offered prayers for divine guidance, peace, and prosperity across Yorubaland, Nigeria, and Africa. The gathering concluded with an exchange of royal blessings and words of goodwill.

Sir Kessington Adebutu, speaking after the event, expressed his joy over the rekindled bond between the monarchs, describing it as a milestone that would strengthen peace, unity, and progress within the Yoruba nation.