The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, convened a historic meeting in Lagos on Friday, solidifying their shared commitment to peace, solidarity, and cultural preservation across Yorubaland.
The high-profile gathering, held at the Eko Hotels Signature Building, was hosted by the Odole Oodua of The Source, Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, as part of his 90th birthday celebration.
Following their session, the two prominent monarchs issued a joint communiqué announcing the immediate establishment of a Joint Council for Yoruba Unity.
This new body is dedicated to advancing peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic progress throughout the region.
Persecondnews recalls that the Ooni and the Alaafin were embroiled in a recent spat between was over the conferment of the “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” title on businessman Dotun Sanusi by the Ooni.
The Alaafin had issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding that the Ooni revoke the title, claiming exclusive authority to bestow titles covering the whole of Yorubaland.
However, this issue has been resolved as both monarchs have reconciled and announced the establishment of a Joint Council for Yoruba Unity to promote peace, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic development across Yorubaland.
The communiqué hailed the meeting as a defining moment in Yoruba history, stressing that the Yoruba nation’s strength is rooted in unity and collective advancement.
“Today marks a defining moment in our shared history. We are committed to promoting harmony among Yoruba sons and daughters and upholding the sacred values of mutual respect and brotherhood bequeathed to us by our forebears,” the communiqué stated.
The forum, which included eminent Yoruba leaders, traditional rulers, and cultural custodians, was not only about celebration but also action, emphasizing the need for inter-kingdom cooperation.
Participants were encouraged to follow the Ooni and Alaafin’s example of reconciliation and mutual respect.
In a powerful moment of symbolism, the two monarchs jointly offered closing prayers, seeking peace and prosperity for Yorubaland, Nigeria, and the African continent.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of royal blessings and goodwill, cementing the bond between the two thrones.
The convener, Sir Adebutu, expressed his immense joy, hailing the unity as “a milestone that will strengthen peace and progress among the Yoruba people.”
The final communiqué was officially signed by Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi and Alaafin Abimbola Owoade, and attested to by Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu.
Persecondnews reports that It was formally released by the Secretary of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Aare Dr. Kola Oyefeso.
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