The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom in Delta State, King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey (PhD), Udurhie I, have called for closer collaboration between traditional rulers and political leaders to promote national unity, peace, and development.

The call was made at the weekend during Ovie’s courtesy visit to the Ooni’s palace, which both monarchs described as a symbol of cultural unity and royal friendship.

Oba Ogunwusi commended Udurhie I for projecting the heritage of the Idjerhe Kingdom, pledging to work with him in improving the welfare of their people. “Together, we will work for the betterment of our kingdoms, our regions, and Nigeria as a whole,” the Ooni said.

On his part, the Ovie of Idjerhe said the traditional institution remains a stabilising force in times of political instability, stressing, “While politicians may falter, we as royal fathers cannot afford to fail. We are the bedrock of Nigeria’s cultural fabric, and we must keep the nation united.”

He urged the Federal Government to prioritise infrastructure, appointments, and economic equity in the South-South, noting that all 97 communities in Idjerhe Kingdom are oil-producing. He also highlighted the need for improved road networks in the Niger Delta to reduce reliance on waterways.

Both monarchs commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform policies and pledged their prayers for his success. Udurhie I further urged the Ooni, in his role as co-chair of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, to continue championing equitable governance across the country.

The visit, observers said, underscored a renewed inter-regional royal alliance and a shared commitment to strengthening traditional institutions in fostering unity across Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape.