2023: Obasanjo Tells Ooni Of Ife What To Do When Politicians Seek His Support For Elections

Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has cautioned the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi against openly declaring support for any politician who comes to him for royal blessings.

The former President said the foremost traditional ruler should be seen as a father to all and should only pray for such politicians without endorsing anyone of them.

Obasanjo gave the charge on Saturday during an event at the Ooni’s palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State organized to honour the director-general of the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Nteranya Sanginga, and his wife, Charlotte, with the chieftaincy title of Aare and Yeye Aare Afurugbin-Ola.

He said: “All the sons and daughters of Yorubaland, no matter where they are or their standpoint, will come to meet you. This is expected because you are the father of all.”

“Anyone of them who says that he is interested in politics, just pray for him and let them go. Anyone who approaches you and says that he wants to be president or governor, just pray for such a person and let him go.

“Don’t direct Yoruba people to support any aspirant, as we don’t all go in the same direction, which is part of our strength in Yorubaland.”

Earlier, the Ooni had appreciated Sanginga for his immense commitment and contribution to the development of agriculture in Africa.

“I’m impressed with your modest achievements as a true son of Africa. You have been doing all within your capacity to ensure food sufficiency in the continent,” he said.

“All through the years, you have developed a passion for agriculture and the results are feasible everywhere.”