By Richard Akintade, Osogbo
The Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa Kingdom in Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba. Dr. Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, has emphasised that total unity among the Yoruba communities is the best thing that can happen to the land.
The traditional ruler disclosed this while speaking during his official installation as patron of Oodua Redemption Alliance (ORA) on Thursday in his palace.
Oba Arowotawaya, who appreciated the group for making him their patron, commended them for always fighting for what belongs to the entire Yoruba race.
The Elerinmo, who called on all Yoruba speaking people to be united regardless of their religious and political differences, described the Yorubas as natural leaders, who have become a compass to other nationalities at all times, saying Yoruba identity and culture are very strong.
In his words, “In whatever we do, we must be conscious of the fact that we are being watched by others, and we can not afford to let the world down, especially those looking up to us for leadership. We have some ethnics envying us all over the world as Yoruba community”
Oba Arowotawaya urged the group to attach decorum to their agitation to achieve the goal completely, adding that it is not by going to war or by destruction of government property saying it can go by way of referendum and consultation.
He added that, “I want to align with our reverred father, the Arole Oduduwa and Ooni of Ile-Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II in pursuing total peace and unity among the Yoruba race ” yes if we have total peace and unity in the land other things would follow.”
Ahead of this, he reiterated that there must be constitutional roles for traditional rulers as this will take care of many issues bedevilling the country.
While speaking, the president, Oodua Redemption Alliance (ORA), Dr Victor Olu Taiwo, described the Elerinmo as a man of integrity and honesty.
He enjoined other traditional rulers in Yoruba land to emulate his leadership quality, which he said had transformed many lives home and abroad.
The president, who implored the traditional ruler not to relent in his efforts, said they decided to install Oba Arowotawaya as their patron because of his complete love and unflinching support for the upliftment of entire Yoruba race.
According to Dr Taiwo, “Our Kabiyesi Oba Arowotawaya is one of the best among traditional rulers agitating for unity of the entire Yoruba community without making puboic noise about it, and he is one of the most committed. He is always preaching the gospel of unity of the Yoruba race as the best thing that will add glamour to the land, which would also showcase us to the entire world.
“Although, our aim is basically on agitation for Yoruba nations in which we are seeking for the unalloyed support of our Yoruba traditional rulers all over to join us.
“Liberating Yoruba nation into a sovereign state, transform Yoruba nation to a super power country and to lift the banner of Africa beyond.”
Dr Taiwo, however, called on Yoruba traditional rulers and leaders to join them in their call in having a Yoruba nation.
At the ceremony were some members of Elerinmo in Council, Elerinmo Elders Council, and members of the Oodua Redemption Alliance (ORA).
Stay ahead with the latest updates! Join The ConclaveNG on WhatsApp and Telegram for real-time news alerts, breaking stories, and exclusive content delivered straight to your phone. Don’t miss a headline — subscribe now!
