Olowu of Kuta Calls on Yoruba Kings to Unite Against Challenges

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The Olowu of Kuta, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Hammed Adekunle Oyelude, Tegbosun III, has called on two of Yorubaland’s foremost traditional rulers—the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Owoade I—to champion the cause of unity among Yoruba monarchs. He said this unity is essential for regional development and for confronting common socio-economic challenges affecting the Yoruba people.

Oba Makama made this appeal during a royal visit by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Owoade, to his palace in Kuta, Osun State, on Tuesday. The visit, he noted, was significant not only for strengthening traditional ties but also for deepening dialogue on the future of the Yoruba race.

In his address, Oba Makama emphasized that the socio-economic advancement of Yorubaland hinges on the ability of its traditional rulers to speak with one voice. “Unity is the foundation of growth. Without it, we cannot fully harness the abundant resources and potentials that exist in our region,” he stated.

The monarch stressed the urgency of collaboration among royal fathers, particularly in tackling pressing issues such as youth unemployment, insecurity, and cultural erosion. He asserted that traditional leaders have a divine and cultural mandate to respond to these challenges by working together beyond political or territorial boundaries.

“It is time for all Yoruba traditional rulers to close ranks and take collective responsibility for solving the myriad of problems that plague our land. From youth restiveness to economic hardship, our silence or disunity will only worsen the situation,” he said.

Oba Makama also urged both the Ooni and the Alaafin to prioritize the preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture and traditions, which he described as the cornerstone of their royal duties. “Promoting our culture and tradition must remain our primary focus. As custodians of Yoruba heritage, we must ensure that our cultural identity is not lost to modernity,” he remarked.

Referencing the ongoing visit, Oba Makama thanked God for the occasion and extended special greetings to the Ooni of Ife, who is currently out of the country. “On behalf of our chairman at the Osun State Council of Obas, the Ooni of Ife, HIM Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, I welcome you. Traditional rulers from five local governments have been eagerly waiting to receive you, Kabiyesi, for over five hours,” he said warmly.

He noted that the visit comes at a strategic time and should be used to send a strong message of unity to all Yoruba people. “There is a crisis in Yorubaland. God has spoken—it is time to come together. You and the Ooni have been divinely positioned as leaders in this region. Please use this opportunity to preach unity among Yoruba Obas.”

Oba Makama also expressed optimism that the current political dispensation—under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a Yoruba son—offers a rare opportunity for the Yoruba nation to rally and reposition itself. “Our son, Bola Tinubu, is now the President of Nigeria. This is a defining moment for Yorubaland. Let us all come together and support him so he can succeed,” he added.

In his response, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, expressed deep appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him by the Olowu of Kuta. He described the reception as both royal and brotherly, affirming that it underscored the importance of the bond they share.

Oba Owoade revealed that he had been following Oba Makama’s public engagements and media contributions for the past two years. He commended him for his consistent efforts in promoting Yoruba culture, values, and traditional institutions. “Your passion and commitment to our heritage is inspiring,” he noted.

The Alaafin said he was particularly moved by the Olowu’s call for unity, describing it as one of the most compelling aspects of his visit. “Kabiyesi, your words today have made this journey truly worthwhile. The message of unity you have delivered is powerful and timely. I am grateful for your wise counsel,” Oba Owoade said.

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