The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Saturday, openly forgave Yoruba Nation agitator, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, during a visit to the monarch’s palace by the latter in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The development marked a major step toward settling the rift between the revered monarch and the activist, following the latter’s previous outbursts against the Ooni of Ife.
According to a viral video on social media, Igboho prostrated before the Ooni, offering an unreserved apology for his past remarks about the monarch.
He said he withdrew all his past utterances and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to seek forgiveness from all he had offended.
“I thank God for my life and for this moment. I never imagined Kabiyesi would honour me this way. I have offended him, and I am here to tender my apology.
“Whoever I have wronged should also forgive me. A man may abuse a king in his absence, but no one insults a monarch to his face. Kabiyesi, please forgive me,” Igboho said.
The activist also revealed that while imprisoned in the Benin Republic, he learnt that the Ooni had played a pivotal role in efforts to secure his release, despite his earlier criticisms of the monarch.
He also appealed to the monarch to intervene in removing his name from the security watchlist and to assist in unfreezing his bank accounts, stressing his continued commitment to safeguarding Yorubaland.
“My priority is the security of our people. They are being killed, and I want to use my strength to defend them. I need your support to make this possible,” he pleaded.
Responding, the Ooni of Ife embraced Igboho as a “brilliant and courageous son of Yorubaland,” noting that his activism was not driven by selfish motives but by concern for the Yoruba people.
“Patience and humility always prevail. Many insulted me when matters became difficult, but I remained calm because I understood. I held private discussions with former President Muhammadu Buhari over your case. I thank God that you are alive today,” the Ooni said.
The monarch assured Igboho that steps would be taken to resolve his outstanding issues, including his security status and frozen bank accounts.
“You are my son, and I harbour no anger against you. Some advised me not to receive you in Ife, but I told them you are fighting for our people. All matters will be settled. We must put aside divisions and unite as one Yoruba family,” the Ooni declared.
