The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, recently spearheaded a powerful delegation of first-class Yoruba monarchs, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Oluwo of Iwo, Olu of IIaro, at the Lagos State government’s zonal public hearing.
The appearance marked a notable intersection of traditional authority and contemporary governance, underscoring the enduring influence of Yoruba royalty in civic affairs.
Footage from the event shows the Ooni delivering remarks to Lagos State officials, expressing gratitude for the invitation and emphasizing the shared cultural heritage that binds the region. In a follow-up video, the Ooni respectfully invited the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to deliver the closing prayers.
After outlining the purpose of their presence, the Ooni paused and said, “Now, I will request that His Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, say the closing prayer.” He then gracefully ceded the microphone, and the Alaafin stepped forward to offer the spiritual benediction—signifying unity and mutual respect among the highest tier of Yoruba monarchs.
This public scene reinforces the traditional hierarchy within Yoruba culture, in which the Ooni of Ife is viewed as the spiritual head and the Alaafin of Oyo as a paramount figure in moral leadership. Their joint presence at the public hearing reflects a growing synergy between traditional rulers and the Lagos State government on issues of regional governance and public welfare.
The hearing itself was part of a broader Lagos State zonal session aimed at gathering public input on upcoming policies and development plans. The inclusion of respected traditional leaders was interpreted as a strategic move to lend cultural weight and moral legitimacy to the proceedings.
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Political analysts suggest that having the Ooni lead hundreds of Obas to the venue emphasized the monarchy’s symbolic power in swaying public sentiment. It also sent a message of solidarity with the state’s democratic institutions, especially as Lagos prepares for key legislative consultations.
Lagos residents and online observers applauded the dignified scene, noting how seamlessly culture and civic life converged in the sequence captured on video. The collaborative act—one monarch inviting another to pray—was widely praised as a display of humility, tradition, and respect.
This event not only showcased the monarchs’ unity but also highlighted their evolving roles as partners in public governance. As the Ooni and Alaafin stood side by side, the images spoke volumes: traditional authority still shapes public discourse and remains deeply woven into Nigeria’s political fabric.
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