Mr. Jonny Baxter, the Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, has voiced his alarm over the increasing violence in Osun State, stating that it is a deeply concerning development.
On Wednesday, when paying a courtesy call to Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, at his palace, he made this comment.
Moses Olafare, director of media and public affairs at the Ooni’s palace, signed a press release that was shared with Punch on Thursday, confirming this.
While addressing the Ooni and other dignitaries present, Baxter expressed his deepest regret at the loss of life and property caused by political motives, arguing that this kind of violence erodes the long-standing peace in Osun State.
He said, “I have known Osun State to be a peaceful place for the past 15 years. Seeing and hearing about the destruction of lives and properties for political reasons is deeply condemnable.
“The first Governor of Western Nigeria, Ooni Adesoji Aderemi, built a very strong institutional relationship with Buckingham Palace in London.
“This relationship was strengthened by your predecessor, Ooni Okunade Sijuwade. Please, do not let the bond break during your reign as the present Ooni of Ife and the overall king of the Yoruba race.
Ooni Ogunwusi, representing the Osun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, condemned political violence and called for an end to the killing.
“The destruction of lives and properties for political gains is unwarranted. Osun has been known for its peace and harmony over the years, as the British Deputy High Commissioner has noted.
“I, on behalf of the Osun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, call on all politicians in Osun State to sheath their swords and remember that no one is greater than the state.”
Furthermore, the visit coincided with the reception of Oba Jimoh Adesoye, the new Elerin of Erin-Ile in Kwara State.
Oba Jimoh Adesoye expressed his thanks to the Ooni for his support throughout the process that led to his ascent to the throne. These events took place simultaneously.
The Obalufe of Ife, prominent high chiefs, the Olojoku of Ojoku in Kwara State, Oba Abdulrasak Adegboyega Afolabi, the Elerin of Erin-Osun in Osun State, Oba Yusuf Oyagbodun, Olori Sherifat Adesoye, Olori of Erin-Ile, Sooko Adegboyega Ogunwusi, and members of the Elerin’s council attended the event.