Ooni cautions Nigerians against divisive tendencies
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has warned Nigerians against divisive tendencies that could undermine the country's unity of purpose, as established by its founding fathers.
He specifically urged Nigerians to view cultural variety as a strength in fostering national unity and peace.
He spoke at the grand finale of the Gbaramatu people's yearly Amasekumo celebration in Delta State's Warri South LGA.
Ooni, the co-chairman of Nigeria's Traditional Council, praised the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro Gbaraun II, for preserving his people's cultural practices.
He stated that the nation is endowed with so much diversity, emphasizing that the country's strength stems from its culture.
"Our power comes from our past and traditions, which is why I don't make light of it because it promotes unity, togetherness, and peace.
"I've read about the history of this festival and its effects. Any time, since time immemorial, once completed, you will begin to reap abundantly.
"On behalf of all traditional rulers present today, we wish to continue to associate with things of very strong legacy, festivals of very strong culture and custom. This is the only thing that keeps us together. This is what truly holds our country together.
"A nation rich in diversity, with strength derived solely from our culture, legacy, and tradition. And that is why I do not make light of it, because it promotes harmony, togetherness, and peace.
"These are the things we must continue to teach our children and future generations. We do not have another country; this is ours, and we must make it right. We should continue to see the bright times and the good sides of our country, and the positive side of our country is its cultural variety." The Ooni added.
The monarch thanked the people of the Gbaramatu Kingdom for their kind hospitality and prayed that the kingdom and its sons, whom he characterized as "very good," would continue to prosper so that they might contribute more to its development.
"Your Majesty, Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom. It is a wonderful honor to always be in the company of the entire Gbaramatu Kingdom population. I adore your people; they are full of honour.
"I recall the last time I came here, you greeted me warmly. I returned to my kingdom and the entire Yoruba Nation to inform my people that I will return to Gbaramatu Kingdom on a regular basis in order to create unity in our dear nation and continue to foster peace in our beautiful Nigeria.
"On behalf of all traditional rulers, I would like to congratulate you once more on your warm reception, and I would like to thank all of your sons for their efforts. All your sons. I cannot even begin to mention names. They have been extremely kind and supportive throughout. "May God continue to bless you," he stated.
The traditional ruler was joined by other traditional royal fathers from the Niger Delta and around the country, as well as senior dignitaries, during the grand finale of the week-long festival, which began on April 12.
Other dignitaries attending the festival include Dr. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum; Government Ekpemupolo; certain members of the Senate and House of Representatives; and Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Presidential Adviser on Niger Delta Amnesty.
