By Amofokhai Williams
In a landmark moment for Yoruba unity, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Saturday extended royal forgiveness to Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The Alarmee reports that the royal forgiveness occur during Sunday Igboho’s emotionally charged visit to the Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife.
The event, attended by prominent Yoruba monarchs, traditional chiefs, and a throng of supporters, marked a significant step toward reconciliation and solidarity in Yorubaland.
The visit electrified the ancient city as Igboho, visibly moved, prostrated before the Ooni to offer an unreserved apology for his past critical remarks against the monarch.
“I thank God for my life and for this opportunity. I never imagined Kabiyesi would honor me this way. I have offended the Ooni, and I am here to seek forgiveness. I ask forgiveness from all I have wronged. One may speak against a king in private, but none dare insult him to his face. Kabiyesi, please forgive me,” Igboho said, his voice heavy with emotion.
He acknowledged that his time in a Benin Republic prison, where he was detained, taught him valuable lessons in humility and gratitude.
Igboho revealed that the Ooni had played a pivotal role in securing his release, a gesture that surprised him given his earlier criticisms.
He appealed to the monarch to leverage his influence to remove his name from security watchlists and unfreeze his bank accounts, emphasizing his commitment to protecting Yoruba communities.
“My priority is the security of Yorubaland. Our people are suffering, and I want to use my strength to defend them. I need your support to make this possible,” he pleaded.
The Attah of Ayede-Ekiti, Oba Abdulmumini Orisagbemi, and the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Olabomi, praised Igboho’s humility and assured him of the Yoruba monarchs’ forgiveness.
They expressed confidence that the Ooni would advocate for the resolution of his challenges, reinforcing the collective support of traditional leaders.
In a gracious response, the Ooni declared his forgiveness, describing Igboho as a “brilliant and courageous son of Yorubaland” whose activism reflects a deep commitment to the Yoruba people’s welfare.
“Patience and humility always prevail. I faced insults during difficult times, but I remained steadfast because I understood the bigger picture. I met privately with former President Muhammadu Buhari multiple times to advocate for your release. I thank God you are alive today,” the Ooni stated.
The monarch pledged to address Igboho’s concerns, promising efforts to resolve his wanted status and financial restrictions.
“You are my son, and I hold no anger toward you. You are a pride to the Yoruba race. Some advised against receiving you, but I insisted because you fight for our people. All matters will be settled. Let us unite as one Yoruba family and set aside division,” the Ooni said.
