In a historic show of solidarity, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, and the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Owoade, have jointly reaffirmed their commitment to peace, unity, and progress across Yorubaland.
The two foremost monarchs met on Friday at the prestigious Eko Hotel Signature Building, Lagos, during the birthday anniversary celebration of the Odole Oodua of the Source, Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, CFR, who also convened the meeting.
The high-level royal dialogue brought together eminent Yoruba leaders, traditional rulers, and cultural custodians in a rare convergence aimed at fostering greater harmony among Yoruba kingdoms.
In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the Ooni and Alaafin announced the creation of a Joint Council of Yoruba Unity, a body designed to promote peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic development throughout Yorubaland.
“Today marks a defining moment in our shared history,” the communiqué stated.
“We are committed to promoting harmony among Yoruba sons and daughters and to upholding the sacred values of mutual respect and brotherhood bequeathed to us by our forebears.”
The newly formed council, according to the communiqué, will serve as a platform for inter-kingdom dialogue, collaboration, and policy alignment, ensuring that traditional institutions continue to play pivotal roles in driving unity and progress among the Yoruba people.
Both monarchs emphasized the importance of continuous engagement between the two ancient thrones of Ile-Ife and Oyo, describing unity as the cornerstone of Yoruba greatness and global influence.
During the session, prayers were jointly offered by the Ooni and the Alaafin for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance over Yorubaland, Nigeria, and the African continent. The royal fathers exchanged blessings and goodwill in an atmosphere of mutual respect and renewed fraternity.
Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, in his remarks, expressed profound satisfaction at the successful outcome of the meeting, describing the event as “a milestone that will chart a new course of peace and development among Yoruba people.”
The communiqué was jointly signed by Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Alaafin Abimbola Owoade, and witnessed by Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, CFR, while Aare Dr. Kola Oyefeso served as Secretary of the Communiqué Drafting Committee.