By Stephen Adeleye.
The Ooni Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi on Monday, reaffirmed the connection between the Yoruba speaking people in Kogi State, Kwara, and the Yoruba dynasty.
Ooni, who gave the affirmation during his historic visit to Mopa in Kogi State, emphasised that despite geographical boundaries, the people of Okun and Kwara are part of the Yoruba heritage, tracing their roots back to Ile-Ife, the cradle of the Yoruba race.
Ooni said his visit to Mopa was a testament to the cultural and historical ties between these regions and the Yoruba kingdom.
Ooni, while acknowledging their shared ancestry and traditions, said the alignment would foster greater unity and cooperation among the people of Okun, Kwara, and the Yoruba kingdom.
The Yoruba paramount ruler stressed that the visit underscored the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
He encouraged the people of Okun to remember their roots and cultural identity in spite being geographically located in the North.
Ooni emphasised that the boundaries separating them from their kinsmen in the Southwest were artificial and should not forget their connection to Ile-Ife.
The Ooni’s statement served as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage shared by the people of Okun, Kwara, and the Yoruba kingdom.
The Ooni also praised the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Owoniyi, for his efforts in uniting the people of the area and advocating for development, particularly the establishment of a tertiary institution in Okunland.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of a leadership award to the Ooni Ife and the commissioning of a Mannequin within the palace of the Elulu of Mopa.
This gesture symbolises the strengthening of ties between the Yoruba kingdom and the people of Okun, promoting mutual respect and collaboration.
The visit marks a significant moment in the history of Mopa and the Okun region, reinforcing their connection to the Yoruba dynasty and promoting culturally exchange and understanding.
