The drumbeats of Yoruba heritage echoed louder as the revered Adeyeye Ogunwusi, popularly known as the Ooni of Ife, was named Grand Patron of the Yoruba elders’ council, Egbe Olodo Ide Igbimo Agbagba Ile Yoruba.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued in Ile-Ife, Osun State, by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Mr. Moses Olafare.
According to the statement, one of the monarch’s queens, Olori Ashley, was also installed as the Iyalode of the organisation in recognition of her commitment to cultural advocacy.
Olafare said the honours bestowed on the royal duo reflected the organisation’s appreciation for the Ooni’s unwavering efforts in keeping the flames of Yoruba culture and tradition burning brightly.
He noted that certificates of recognition were presented to both the Ooni and Olori Ashley by members of the group during the ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Coordinator Mr. Olajide Kamilu explained that the council was established to project Yoruba language, culture, and traditions onto the global stage while strengthening cultural identity among younger generations.
Kamilu praised the monarch for championing cultural revival, saying his reign had thrown Yoruba traditions into international limelight.
He, however, raised the alarm over what he described as the fading attachment of many young people to Yoruba values and language, lamenting that several parents no longer teach their children the customs and tongue of their forebears.
He stressed that renewed cultural education had become necessary to stop Yoruba heritage from slipping through the cracks like sand through open fingers.
The group also sought the monarch’s continued royal backing and blessings in advancing its cultural mission.
Responding, the Ooni described the initiative as timely and vital to preserving Yoruba identity and heritage.
The monarch expressed gratitude for the recognition accorded to him and his queen, assuring the organisation of his support for efforts geared toward promoting Yoruba culture, unity, and traditions.
Oba Ogunwusi also offered royal blessings to the group, praying for its success and enduring impact in preserving Yoruba cultural identity for generations yet unborn.
