17 years after, Olubadan pays first official visit to Alaafin

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji Aje Ogunguniso 1 yesterday paid his first official visit to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi in his palace.

The visit of Oba Adetunji, who arrived at the palace around 10:35a.m. alongside the Olubadan-in-Council and senior chiefs from Ibadan is the first in 17 years between the Ibadan monarch and his counterpart in Oyo.

It was learnt that the last visit of a sitting Olubadan to Alaafin was during the reign of Oba Yinusa Bankole Ogundipe Arapasowu 1 in 1999. Our correspondent learnt that Oba Adetunji in his efforts to appreciate those who graced his coronation on March 4 and to foster unity among Yoruba traditional rulers had recently visited the monarch of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akinolu.

Oba Adetunji said the reason for the visit was to thank those who attended his coronation and to foster unity among traditional rulers in Yorubaland. He used the occasion to pledge his support for the continuous peaceful relationship between the people of Ibadan and Oyo.

The Ibadan monarch who recalled his relationship with Oba Adeyemi before and after his coronation in 1971, described his host as a man of honour.

The royal father also prayed for more fruitful years for the Alaafin and himself on the throne.While welcoming the Olubadan, Oba Adeyemi assured that he would continue to maintain the cordial relationship existing between them.

The Alaafin implored Nigerians to continue to pray and work hard for the resuscitation of the economy. He urged those involved in social vices such as kidnapping, vandalism and terrorism to desist from them and allow peace to reign.