By Lukman Olabiyi, Lagos
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has described the Yoruba diaspora organisation, Oodua Progressives Union (OPU), as the “pride of the Yoruba race”, saying the group remains a global instrument for securing the much-needed unity and peace in Yorubaland.
Ooni Adeyeye spoke on Tuesday while playing host to over 983 delegates of the OPU at his palace in Ile Ife.
The revered monarch applauded the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland and the global convener of the group, Iba Gani Adams for creating a global platform that can project the image of the Yoruba people in the diaspora.
Oba Adeyeye also urged members of the OPU to remain committed to the ideals of the organisation, saying Yoruba has the best culture and traditions that anybody could be proud of.
“I am happy to see you all today as you normally visit the palace to celebrate the Oodua festival with us in Ile Ife.
“Members of the OPU remain a global instrument for unity, peace, and the pride of the Yoruba race. You are our ambassadors in the diaspora and I will continue to pray for you so that you can also fulfil the lofty dreams of Yoruba land and that of your organization.
“I also appreciate Aare for his consistency and courage to build this global platform. I pray God to continue to bless you for these wonderful efforts.
Responding, Adams expressed delight at the nature and accommodating spirit of Ooni since he assumed office in 2015.
The Yoruba generalissimo stated that the royal visit was in fulfilment of the diaspora organisation’s tradition to come down to Ile Ife for royal blessings.
He said the visit to the revered monarch was an important aspect of the annual World Congress programme.
“I thank Kabiesi Ona Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi for the special hospitality Kabiesi’s interest in Yoruba land is beyond ordinary and I promise not to relent in my efforts to rescue the people of our race,” he said.
About 983 delegates of the OPU from 96 countries and the six continents were at the palace to seek the royal blessing from Ooni of lfe.