The 51st Ooni of Ife Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi has promised that a new Yoruba nation where youth empowerment is the focus will emerge during his tenure.
Ogunwusi’s coronation came five months after the demise of Oba Okunade Sijuwade, who passed on after a brief illness at the age of 85.
In his goodwill message, Vice President Osinbajo, who represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the event, said “As we celebrate with pomp today (yesterday), we are reminded of the great responsibility that is thrusted on you as the representative of the virtuous.”
Governor Rauf Aregbesola also added that “New Ooni must work towards fostering unity among his subjects across, not a unity that will be achieved through coercion. Your attitude will be the cardinal determinant of your success. Try to carry along all in decision making.”
During his speech, the new Ooni said “Shortly after I was named Ooni-elect, I sprang into action. I called my friend, Oba Saheed Elegushi, I spoke to the Sultan of Sokoto. I also called Kabiyesi, the Alaafin. I spoke to the Awujale and the Alake. I am prepared for the throne and this is not accidental.
“I am close to many monarchs and uniting them should not be a problem. It will be easy. No competition with anyone. And I want to announce to the entire world that a new Yoruba nation is coming.”