Ooni in historic visit to Alaafin

The Alaafin of Oyo, Lamidi Adeyemi, Sunday, played host to the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Oginwusi.

The meeting of the two most prominent Yoruba traditional rulers is a historic development, signalling unity of the South West, leader of Odua Peoples Congress, Gani Adams, said.

Ooni Ogunwusi, with about 15 monarchs, including Timi of Ede and Orangun of Ila, visited Oyo to felicitate with Alaafin Adeyemi who is still celebrating his 45 years coronation anniversary.

Alaafin Adeyemi, the third from Adeyemi Alowolodu lineage, is the longest reigning Alaafin ever, surpassing late Alaafin Siyanbola Ladigbolu (1911-1944) who spent 33 years.

As Ooni Ogunwusi,  with his entourage, arrived to warm reception of residents, he was led to the Methodist Church, Apaara, where Alaafin Adeyemi was attending his coronation thanksgiving service.

At the service, the Alaafin thanked the Ife monarch and other well wishers.

He also sued for peace and unity in the Yorubaland and led his guests to his Palace.

Speaking with PREMIUM TIMES, Mr. Adams said, “this shows God has answered the prayer of the Yorubas.

“It is what we have been praying that the traditional seats unite to pursue develop of the region.”

He thanked Ooni Ogunwusi for his for his humility and “commitment to Yoruba unity” and urged that the “Alaafin too should reciprocate Ooni’s gesture very soon.”

Many indigenes of Oyo monitored on Facebook expressed joy at Ooni’s visit.

Ooni Ogunwusi’s predecessor, late Okunade Sijuwade, and Alaafin Adeyemi had a history of rivalry.