The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has underscored the importance of national unity as a prerequisite for Nigeria’s sustainable development.
The monarch made the remark during separate meetings with former President Goodluck Jonathan, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, and the Bayelsa State Traditional Council, as part of his three-day visit to the state.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Media and Publicity at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the monarch was accompanied on the visit by his wife, Olori Elizabeth Ogunwusi; the Alaagba of Aagba, Oba Rufus Ogunwole; and the Onigbaye of Igbaye, Oba Joseph Okunlola-Oni.
Speaking before the Bayelsa State Traditional Council, Oba Ogunwusi emphasised that fostering peace and unity among Nigeria’s diverse cultures is crucial to national progress.
“We have no other country except Nigeria,” he said. “What Nigeria needs to progress is peace, and there can be no peace without unity of purpose. This is where the government needs our support.
“As traditional rulers, we must lead our people rightly for the country to enjoy peace, so that government’s Renewed Hope Agenda can positively impact lives across all communities. To achieve this, we must promote cross-cultural communication and engagements like this.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers and Ibenanaowei of the Ekpetiama Kingdom, King Bubaraye Dakolo, described the Ooni’s visit as historic, noting that Bayelsa is the first among the 17 southern states to host the monarch since his appointment as the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council last year.
He praised the Ooni for his relentless efforts to unify traditional institutions across the country, particularly in the southern region.
In separate remarks, former President Jonathan and Governor Diri acknowledged the pivotal roles traditional rulers play in promoting peace, stability, and cultural heritage in Nigeria.
Governor Diri also announced plans to officially invite the Ooni to the 29th anniversary celebration of Bayelsa State later this year.
“You have so far comported yourself with royal dignity and majestic simplicity. Your humility is second to none, and I am pleased with the high regard our traditional rulers here have for you,” Diri said.
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