The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has sent an envoy, Prince Sheriff Adebayo-Onisile, to the Republic of Benin to strengthen historical and cultural ties between the Oyo Empire and Yoruba communities in the country. The three-day mission aims to promote unity, cultural diplomacy, and reconciliation ahead of the forthcoming Oyo Empire Day celebration. Adebayo-Onisile, a renowned Yoruba historian, will engage with various stakeholders to foster cooperation and enthusiasm for the event.
The Oyo Empire Day celebration, which focuses on unity and commemoration of the great Yoruba Empire, aims to showcase the rich heritage and glory of Yoruba civilization. The Alaafin stressed that the festival is an opportunity to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among Yoruba communities across national boundaries. The mission to Benin Republic is part of ongoing consultations and mobilization efforts towards the celebration.
During his visit, Adebayo-Onisile met with prominent Yoruba elders, politicians, socio-cultural association leaders, and traders in Porto-Novo. The meeting, held at the palace of the Aladjache (Alajase), discussed important issues, including challenges and concerns surrounding the unity of the Yoruba people in Porto-Novo, preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture, and historical relationships between Dahomey and the Old Oyo Empire.
Adebayo-Onisile also held a meeting with the Minister for Secondary Education and Bashorun of Pobeland in the Plateau Province, Chief Clement Kouchade. The meeting centered on issues relating to Oyo heritage in the Republic, historical and cultural ties between Yoruba communities and Oyo, and concerns of the Alaafin regarding unity and peaceful coexistence of all Yoruba people in Benin.
The Alaafin's representative visited Igolo, where he was warmly received by His Royal Majesty, Oba Rafiu Adesakin, the Aladjache of Adjache-Ile, Porto-Novo. He also met with other notable Yoruba personalities, including Prince Sanni Onikoyi, a retired principal lecturer, and Prince Felix Agboluaje, the Olori Ebi of the Agboluaje family of Ifonyin.
The mission generated enthusiasm for the proposed participation of Yoruba communities in the Republic in the Oyo Empire Day celebration. The visit demonstrated considerable goodwill towards the Alaafin and his initiative to promote unity, peace, cultural preservation, and stronger relationships among Yoruba communities across national boundaries.
The Oyo Empire Day celebration is expected to feature various activities that promote Yoruba culture and unity. The Alaafin's efforts to strengthen ties with Yoruba communities in Benin Republic and promote cultural exchange have been commended by stakeholders. The celebration is seen as an opportunity to restore a sense of belonging and intentional remembrance among Yoruba people.
Key points
- The Alaafin of Oyo sent an envoy to Benin Republic to strengthen ties and mobilize for Oyo Empire Day celebrations.
- The Oyo Empire Day celebration aims to promote unity and commemoration of the great Yoruba Empire.
- The mission generated enthusiasm for Yoruba communities in Benin Republic to participate in the Oyo Empire Day celebration.
