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The Significance of Oba of Benin’s visit to the Arole Oduduwa in Ile-Ife

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It is no longer news that Ile-Ife, the Source and Cradle of the Yoruba race have a calendar of three hundred and sixty-five less a day in respect to its festivals. These festivals come as a way of life, that is, culture of the people. It is no gainsaying that since his ascension to the throne of his forefathers, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi has made significant effort by promoting the Africa traditional beliefs and culture and ensuring performance of all festivals since October 2015 to date.
In the few years of his reign to date, Ooni Adeyeye has endeavoured to touch lives, physically and materially. He has been a household name in terms of promoting our cultural values as well as being a frontier for unity and peace, both at the national and international level.
At this year’s Olokun Festival, H.I.M got a collaboration in the area of peace keeping across the divide and this is no other person than his brother King, a descendant of the Oduduwa kingdom and a foremost custodian of the Africa Culture; The Oba of Benin, Omo N’oba Akpolokpolo Ewuare II. The Oba was hosted by H.I.M on the first day of the Olokun celebration, 28 April 2018 at an elaborate reception at the Royal Court, Enuwa, Ile-Ife.
The visit showcased a display of culture of both the Benin and Yoruba people; the performance of the Benin cultural group, the Ooni’s palace troops among others was not only beautiful but the similarity in culture was highlighted. The Kings guards, music and the waist-twist on the dance floor were actually “things to write home about.”
I must recall that the last time such visit happened between both kingdoms was some thirty-nine years ago. The last visit which occurred in 1979 at the Royal Court, was done by the reigning Oba of Benin, Omo n’oba ni Edo Erediauwa to see the Ooni  Adesoji Aderemi, on his ascension to the throne of Benin. The following year, Ooni Aderemi joined his precursors. It is however noteworthy that, Baba was delighted with Omo’n’ba to the extent that he swapped his revered black leather seat with Erediauwa.  Ooni Adesoji Aderemi was blessed to have witnessed three reigns of Oba of Benin before he passed. May our kings be blessed with long life in the land of the living (amen).
The crust on the visit this time is: the visit to the ‘Orun Oba Ado’ and the symbolic gift presented to the Ewuare. Need I tell you to seat tight, fasten your seat-belt as I take you through the significance of the coatings.
Both selfless monarchs decided to visit the place named ‘Orun Oba Ado’ meaning ‘the resting place of Edo kings.’ Tradition has it that when a Ọba of Benin passes, his head was sent from the Edo kingdom to the Orun Oba Ado in Aku (Ile-Ife) for burial while a bronze-head replica was sent from Ile-Ifẹ to Edo where the rest of the body would be buried. This goes to show the existence of a very close relationship between the Aku and Edo I suppose. On same note, Feyistan Opeyemi in a publication made on the 25 March 2012 stated that the reason may not be far-fetched from the belief that Aku and Ado are siblings and represent the Biblical Esau and Jacob. Reference was made to the book of Jasher 56:48 – 57:5. The major factor is that strong ties exist between Benin Kingdom and Ile-Ife as a descent of Oduduwa. Therefore, the monarchs were thoughtful to pay a visit to this site where they prayed to their ancestors, asking God for unity and peace within their kingdoms and Nigeria at large.
The choice of gift for the Oba of Benin was cardinal and a thoughtful move was made by H.I.M as he presented a gift which transcends beyond the physical, it is symbolic; it illustrates the bond between the two kingdoms, their vocation as professional hunter, and the link of brotherhood to Oranmiyan and further to Oduduwa.
To mark this historic visit, the two powerful brother-king and their entourage were hosted to a reception by the Osun State Governor, His Excellency, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola at the government house in Osogbo, Osun State.
The take-home of the visit according to H.I.M Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi and the Omo N’oba Akpolokpolo Ewuare II is that, both kings have the intention to foster unity and better understanding of the kingdoms. They also admonished the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Mohammed Buhari to ensure coexistence among Nigerians by resolving issues that impact the security of the country.
The Olokun festival which was rounded up on 29 April 2018 witnessed a good number of people from within and outside Nigeria in attendance. The Olokun festival is an annual cultural festival in Nigeria, it is celebrated throughout Yoruba land and the Edo. The word Okun means sea while Olokun means the owner of the sea; the owner who is deemed the  goddess of the sea. It is believed that the Olokun has the power to give children to barren women. She is also believed to be in control of ocean waves and could capsize sea vessels of evildoers at will. Olokun is also the goddess of riches and she has the power to bestow wealth to her devotees. The worshippers of Olokun are generally dressed in immaculate white attires with their faces paintedted with white chalk.
The Edo people celebrate Olokun in late February that is; 1st moon after the 12th moon. This takes place in Usonigbe, the site of Olokun’s shrine, in Edo State while the Chief Olokun shrine is located in the Ilode quarter of Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Long may our Kings live!!!
Gbemisola Bis-Taiwo
PhD Candidate, Maynooth University, Department of Law.

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Children’s Day: ‘Build Futures, Not Just Speeches’ — Ajadi Urges Govt to Invest in Schools, Healthcare, Safe Spaces for Children

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Children’s Day: ‘Build Futures, Not Just Speeches’ — Ajadi Urges Govt to Invest in Schools, Healthcare, Safe Spaces for Children

Children’s Day: ‘Build Futures, Not Just Speeches’ — Ajadi Urges Govt to Invest in Schools, Healthcare, Safe Spaces for Children

As nations across the globe commemorate International Children’s Day today, May 27, 2025, a chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the South-West and Chairman of Bullion Records, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has called on Nigerian leaders at all levels to prioritize investment in infrastructure that directly benefits children.

Ajadi, in a statement released to mark the special day, emphasized that the true measure of a nation’s commitment to democracy is reflected in how well it nurtures and protects its youngest citizens. According to him, “Children are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are active citizens of today whose rights, welfare, and education must be prioritized if Nigeria truly wants to move forward.”

He said many children in Nigeria still face serious challenges, including poor access to quality education, inadequate healthcare, unsafe living conditions, and child labour. He urged both federal and state governments to invest significantly in educational infrastructure, public health systems, and safe recreational spaces to give Nigerian children a chance to thrive.

“In countries with strong democratic values, children enjoy free and quality education, health care services, and the basic amenities needed for growth and development. We cannot continue to celebrate Children’s Day with mere words and festivities. We need action. We need commitment,” Ajadi stated.

Children’s Day, which originated from the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1925 and later recognized universally by the United Nations, is a reminder of the shared responsibility governments and societies have toward the youngest members of their communities. While many developed countries celebrate the day with events showcasing advancements in child welfare, Nigeria still battles widespread child poverty, out-of-school children, and preventable diseases.

Ajadi, a vocal advocate of youth empowerment and education, also used the opportunity to commend the resilience of Nigerian children despite the country’s many socio-economic difficulties. “It is heartbreaking to see millions of children with dreams and potential walk long distances to schools without roofs, sit on bare floors, or fall ill due to lack of clean water or basic medical care. The government must see this as a call to conscience,” he said.

He added that democracy should not only be defined by elections and political activities but by the visible dividends that reach every citizen, particularly the most vulnerable.

Ambassador Ajadi, who also runs philanthropic initiatives through Bullion Records and other personal foundations, has previously sponsored educational outreach programs and advocated for greater youth participation in policy-making.

He reiterated his Children’s Day message with a call to action: “Let us build a Nigeria where every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education, nutritious food, clean water, and a safe environment. That is the only way we can build a new Nigeria we all dream of.”

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world in marking Children’s Day, stakeholders, policymakers,…Click the link below for the full story.

Children’s Day: ‘Build Futures, Not Just Speeches’ — Ajadi Urges Govt to Invest in Schools, Healthcare, Safe Spaces for Children

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Don”t Tanish or Destroy Our Eri Doctrine.-Primate Yemi Ogunbanjo warned

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Don”t Tanish or Destroy Our Eri Doctrine.-Primate Yemi Ogunbanjo warned

 

Primate Yemi Ogunbanjo, President of Christian Followers of the Ark of God Congregation (egbe Eleri) have warned those who planned to to establish another group of Eri not to destroy or tarnish the doctrine.

In a press released sent by his media and signed by him stated that they will not allow any individual or group tarnish what some christian have believe on it.

President also said that “We discovered that a lot of people are claiming to establish another egbe Eleri, there is nothing bad in that all we are saying is that they shouldn’t do what could tanish or destroy our Eri doctrine.

“Our own form of ERI is not idolatry, we believe we are one so far we worship the only one God through Jesus Christ our Savior.

“The only advice we have for you is that you shouldn’t practice anything that goes against the law of the land so that you will not be an offender”

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TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES CHILDREN’S DAY WITH A CALL TO ACTION FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGED

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TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES CHILDREN’S DAY WITH A CALL TO ACTION FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGED

In a heartfelt statement issued by the Chairman of the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the foundation proudly announced its celebration of Children’s Day, emphasizing the importance of nurturing and supporting the young minds of our nation. This initiative highlights the foundation’s unwavering commitment to the education and welfare of children, particularly those affected by the sacrifices of military personnel.

The statement underscores the significant contributions of the grand patron, His Excellency Amb Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR, former Chief of Army Staff. During his term in office, Gen Buratai implemented numerous programs aimed at benefiting the education of children whose parents lost their lives in the line of duty during counter-insurgency operations in the northeast. His dedication to this noble cause has left an indelible mark on the lives of these children, ensuring that they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.

As Children’s Day is celebrated across the nation, the foundation calls upon citizens to take responsibility for the less privileged, particularly orphans within their communities. “We must remember the profound sacrifices made by the parents of these children, who laid down their lives for our safety and security,” the statement read. It further urged the public to reflect on the plight of children whose parents are currently serving on the front lines, emphasizing the need for collective support and compassion.

The foundation also encourages everyone to extend their prayers and gratitude to the brave personnel who continue to protect the nation, often separated from their families. “Let us cherish the moments we have with our children and remember those who are making sacrifices for our safety,” the statement concluded.

The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation’s celebration of Children’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the shared responsibility we all have to ensure the well-being of our future generations, particularly those who have faced adversity As the foundation continues its vital work, it invites all Nigerians to join in its efforts to uplift and support the children who are the backbone of our society.

TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES CHILDREN’S DAY WITH A CALL TO ACTION FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGED

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