The Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, has said the ascension of the new Olubadan of Ibadaland, Oba Olalekan Ishola Balogun, to the throne of his forebears is a reflection of hope, prosperity and progress for Ibadanland.
Aare Gani Adams disclosed this in Ibadan, Oyo State on Thursday during his visit to the palace of the Olubadan.
The Yoruba generalissimo said the reason for the courtesy visit was to perform his traditional role by paying homage to the revered monarch and also identify with the stool of the foremost Ibadan monarch.
He said: “I am here to pay homage to the Olubadan as part of my roles as the Aareonakafo of Yoruba land.
“It is interesting to identify with the revered stool of Olubadan that is noted for taking prominent place in Yoruba history.
“It is my tradition and by virtue of my position as the Aareonakafo of Yorubaland, I consider it very important and necessary to pay homage and discuss with Kabiesi pertinent issues that can help in projecting Ibadan positively.”
Iba Adams, while praying for the new Olubadan for good health and sound mind, restated his support to the royal stool, even as he urged all Ibadan sons and daughters, including the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, to rally round the Olubadan in ensuring that Ibadan regains its lost glory.
In his remark, Oba Balogun expressed appreciation to Aare Adams for his kind gesture, saying the Yoruba generalissimo has done him a worthy honour.
Oba Balogun stated further that the visit was the beginning of a lasting relationship and it was also in fulfilment of a worthy purpose.
He said: “I thank Aare Gani Adams for this visit.
“I am highly humbled because we couldn’t have enough time to discuss during my coronation ceremony and he promised on that day that he would soon pay me a visit.
“So I appreciate him for fulfilling his promise.
“This will definitely cement a lasting relationship.”
Dignitaries on the Aareonakakanfo’s entourage to the Olubadan palace included the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Culture and Tourism, Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige; Osi Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Kayode Balogun; Agbaoye Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Oluwafemi Arowosola; Chief Duro Oke; and other prominent members of the National Executive Council of the Oodua People’s Congress.