By: Sayó Àlàgbé
sayoalagbe64@gmail.com
THE CLASSICAL lines of William B. Yeats, an Irish poet, whose timeless lines are made popular by the Nigerian story-teller: Chinua Achebe; through his famous title: Things Fall Apart – with the suffix: “when the centre cannot hold”, is a constant reminder of the importance of the “centre” to hold, at all cost. At the centre of the theme of this piece, lies the duo of Ooni of Ife, Oba Babátúndé Enììtàn Ògúnwùsì, Òjájá II, and the Aare Ona Kakanfo, Otunba Gani Adams.
MATTERS arising.
THE PHENOMENON is no longer for the bystanders to observe and make joke of and laugh to scorn: how Yoruba race has degenerated to such low level of public ridicule. This is an issue that deserves all hands to be on deck, especially the eminent Yoruba sons and daughters – who surround the two prominent Yoruba title holders, to sheath their swords. This is beyond reasonable doubt.
SIGNIFICANTLY, ACROSS the globe, the title of the Ooni of Ife stands as one of the most preeminent and spiritually profound positions in traditional leadership. To begin with, it is not just a throne: it is an institution, foundational and significant as the anvil in a blacksmith’s workshop, which is heavy with history, significance, and reverence.
THIS ANCIENT office cannot, and should not, be treated with insolence or levity, regardless of one’s social status or political stature. The Ooni is not just a king; he is a custodian of culture, a deity-king, whose influence stretches far and beyond the shores of Nigeria to the African continent, and the global stage.
THE UNIVERSAL truth that Ilé-Ifè is the cradle of the Yoruba civilization is undisputed. It remains a historical fact, deeply entrenched in the psyche of Yorùbá descendants. A significant number of Obas in Yorubaland trace their ancestral origins to Ilé-Ifè, from where they migrated to their current domains. Hence, the position of the Ooni transcends mere traditional leadership: it is emblematic of origin, continuity, and identity.
RETROSPECTIVELY, THIS article is prompted by the recurring criticisms and allegations against the current Ààre Ona Kakanfò of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams. Some of his critics argue that his customary handshake with the Ooni at public functions, constitutes a breach of Yoruba traditional protocol, and as such, an affront to the exalted throne of lle – Ifè, presently occupied by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Babátúndé Enììtàn Ògúnwùsì, Òjájá II.
INSIGHTFUL, WHILE their concerns may stem from a place of cultural sensitivity, it’s important to understand the unique nature of the Ààre Ona Kakanfò’s office. The role, much like that of a military generalissimo, is one of sacred obligation and power, tasked with protecting the territorial and spiritual sanctity of Yorubaland.
JUST LIKE uniformed officers, police, military, customs – who are not permitted to prostrate while in uniform, the Ààre is bound by sacred traditions that forbid him from bowing, or prostrating to any individual; including kings and even his own parents, due to the fortification rites he has undergone.
HISTORICALLY, AFTER installation, the Ààre was mandated to live at the outposts of the Oyo Empire, distanced from the Alaafin, the only traditional ruler with the authority to confer the title. This separation reinforced the power, autonomy, and mystical significance of his role. It is for this reason that Iba Gani Adams does not, and indeed must not, prostrate before any Oba, including the Ooni and Alaafin; who installed him. The spiritual energies vested in him, if transferred through a full prostration, could, according to ancient beliefs, adversely affect the recipient, potentially leading to illness, or even death.
AT THE same time, it would be unjust to fault the Ooni for extending a handshake. From my understanding and observation, Oba Ògúnwùsì is a monarch steeped in humility, cultural knowledge, and genuine respect for all; regardless of social class. His approachable and inclusive demeanor are hallmarks of his reign. Kabiyesi has never been one to exhibit arrogance or condescension in his royal conduct. His practice of extending a hand in greeting, stems from warmth and humility; rather than a desire to diminish his own stature.
HOWEVER, AS we strive to protect and modernize our traditions, I humbly suggest that the Ooni adopt a new mode of greeting that better reflects his esteemed position; be it through a wave, a gestural blessing, or the symbolic elevation of his royal staff. This insightful adjustment will help preserve the sanctity of the throne, while reduces public misunderstandings.
EQUALLY, IBA Gani Adams, as someone I have known for decades, is not a disrespectful individual. Far from it. He abhors arrogance and insolence, and he holds Yoruba monarchs in the highest esteem. His journey from a grassroots activist to a globally recognized freedom fighter is nothing short of legendary. His legacy spans from the days of the Campaign for Democracy, through JACON and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), where he fearlessly fought for the Yoruba cause and self-determination; even at great personal cost.
FURTHERMORE, DURING the height of June 12 struggles, and under the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo, Gani Adams became a political target. I witnessed, reported, and supported his sacrifices, including his harrowing arrests, detentions in Alagbon and Kuje prisons, and the million-naira bounty once placed on his head. His eventual installation as the Ààre Ona Kakanfò by the late Alaafin Oba Lamidi Adéyemí III; was a recognition of merit, not favour. He earned the title with sweat, conviction, and courage. He didn’t request for it.
THUS, TO accuse Ààre Gani Adams of disrespect toward the Ooni is to misunderstand both the sacredness of his office and the integrity of his character. Still, I advise that he, too, adopts a symbolic form of salutation, perhaps a respectful gesture with his staff, or a culturally appropriate nod; to avoid further misgivings and misinterpretations.
MAY THE Yoruba nation continue to flourish, and may our traditions, old and evolving, remain a beacon of identity and pride for generations to come. Amin!
You can get every of our news as soon as they drop on WhatsApp ...To get all news updates, Join our WhatsApp Group (Click Here)
