The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade 1, has stressed the need for cultural ties with Itsekiri, saying they will help promote peace and unity in the country.
The revered traditional ruler spoke during the visit of royal Warri Chiefs and other Itsekiri leaders to the Alaafin in the ancient Oyo town.
At the palace, a prominent journalist, Adewale Adeoye, introduced the delegation led by the Iyasere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Amatsereuleghe, who later introduced other members of the delegation
Speaking at the meeting, Iyasere said he brought fraternal greetings from the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse 11 and the entire people of Warri Kingdom.
He described the visit as historic and a deliberate attempt to strengthen the bridge of collaboration and solidarity between Itsekiri and the Yoruba people, who share the same ancestry. He praised Alaafin for his demonstration of qualitative leadership within the shortest time of his emergence.
Iyasere said the visit was to congratulate Alaafin on his new leadership role in Yorubaland and across the world.
He said Alaafin had come at the right time in history, adding that the people are waiting for him to heal the wounds and scars of the past by uniting all children of Oduduwa for peace and prosperity.
He said the Itsekiri in Delta State have suffered political and economic marginalisation dating back decades and that the people have endured so much repression and exclusion that needed to be addressed.
“There is no ambiguity about our Yoruba origin. This is a fact we know. It is evident in our location in Delta, our language, our culture and the folklore handed over by our forefathers.”
Responding, the Alaafin thanked the delegation for remembering to visit their ancestors’ home and land.
He said, “We are bound by blood. What affects you affects the entire Yoruba people. We have the same history, shared fears and aspirations. We need to work together as people driven by the same history and destiny,” Oba Owoade told the Warri Chiefs.”
