The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade has affirmed that his good plans for the people of the ancient town of Oyo and Yorubaland remain unshaken.
Alaafin Abimbola also noted that harmonising norms and values embedded in traditional institutions with the modern system of governance were the only antidote in reducing, if not totally eradicating the problems of access to justice and conflict resolution in the country.
Oba Owoade emphasised these when he received traditional rulers from Ibarapa area of Oyo State who paid him a courtesy visit.
He said these have become imperative considering that socio-cultural norms embedded in traditional institutions have remained integral part of the people.
Alaafin noted that apart from being the powerful human tool for survival, defined cultural norms and values also form the bases of existence of every civilised society and they bring order which in turn structure a lawless society.
Oba Owoade highlighted his role as a traditional ruler and key figure serving as a bridge between traditional institutions and modern governance.
He said, “The Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
“The Oyo Empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural influence.
“The Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future.”
Oba Owoade solicited for the same support accorded his predecessor, late Oba Lamidi Oayiwola Adeyemi III, assuring the Ibarapa monarchs that he will follow his predecessor’s indelible traits.
Earlier, the Olu of Igbo-Ora, Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye who led the other Ibarapa monarchs on the courtesy visit expressed confidence in Alaafin Owoade’s wisdom, leadership and dedication to strengthen further the unity of the Oyo, Yorubaland and the nation.
“As the Alaafin assumed the sacred responsibility, we are confident that your wisdom, leadership, and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.
“You are on the threshold of history as the successor to Oba Adeyemi III, one of the most influential and longest-reigning monarchs in Yoruba history,” Oba Titiloye stressed.
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