By Adeyinka Adeniran
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Amb. Abayomi Mumuni has called on the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, to prioritize peace, unity, and diplomacy in their engagements as foremost traditional rulers of Yorubaland.
Mumuni in a statement he personally signed on Tuesday, was reacting to the cold war brewing between the Ojaja II and Oba Owoade over the controversial chieftaincy title conferred on a popular Ibadan-based business mogul, Dotun Sanusi, as Okanlomo of Yorubaland.
Alaafin of Oyo described Ooni’s action as an “affront” after he issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the revocation of the chieftaincy title.
Addressing the two leading monarchs in Yorubaland, Mumuni, a renowned security expert emphasised that the weight of history and legacy entrusted to their thrones requires wisdom, patience, and mutual respect.
He urged both leaders to focus on collaboration rather than conflict, noting that their conduct sets a precedent for millions of Yoruba people.
Mumuni urged the monarchs to always remember their shared history and common ancestry which should override differences, while allowing patience and diplomacy to guide them in times of tension.
He stressed that their actions set an example for all Yoruba communities and should therefore inspire humility and respect.
According to him, initiatives that foster unity such as cultural, social, and economic collaborations will strengthen Yoruba solidarity and project harmony across Nigeria.
Mumuni, a one-time gubernatorial candidate further advised the monarchs to avoid provocative statements that could escalate conflicts, seek the wisdom of respected elders in resolving disputes, and provide avenues for peaceful dialogue where community members can freely voice their concerns.
Mumuni also encouraged them to place the collective welfare of the Yoruba people above personal interests, celebrate their uniqueness while safeguarding shared cultural goals, and maintain a relationship grounded in mutual respect and admiration.
“Your leadership holds the potential to unite not only the Yoruba people but also to portray a strong image of harmony across the nation,” Mumuni stated. “It falls upon you to lead with grace and wisdom, ensuring that future generations inherit a legacy of unity, respect, and understanding.”
The APC chieftain concluded by praying that the reigns of the two monarchs continue to inspire, unite, and strengthen the Yoruba nation.
