Group condemns ex-President’s disrespect for traditional rulers

A socio-cultural group, the Concerned Omo Yoruba Worldwide Association, has criticised former President Olusegun Obasanjo over his action, ordering traditional rulers in Oyo state to stand up at an event, saying Obasanjo’s action is a taboo in Yorubaland.

The group who stated this in a statement described Obasanjo’s action as an insult to traditional institutions and the people of Yorubaland in general.

In the statement signed by the group’s leader, Akogun Tunde Omololu and its Secretary, Dr. David Bakin, said the former President has desecrated not only the traditional institutions but also the rich Yoruba culture and tradition and demanded a public apology from Obasanjo

The group stated, “We address you today with deep concern and disappointment regarding the regrettable incident that transpired in Iseyin, Oyo State, on the 15th of September, 2023.

“This occurrence took place during the official road commissioning ceremony organized by the Oyo State Government, where Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was invited as the Chief Guest of Honor.

“However, the realization that it was a real event left us deeply disheartened. Obasanjo’s actions were profoundly beneath the dignity of our rich Yoruba culture and tradition; they constituted a grave violation and an affront to our cherished customs.

“It was an egregious display of arrogance and disrespect toward our revered Obas in Yorubaland. Our Obas hold a position of great significance, often referred to as the “Igbakeji Orisa” (next in line to the deities).

“Therefore, witnessing such disrespect towards our Obas, especially from a person of Obasanjo’s stature, whose Yoruba heritage is a subject of debate, is a source of immense shame and an insult to Yoruba culture and tradition.

“We wholeheartedly denounce Obasanjo’s reprehensible conduct and insist on a public apology to all the affronted Obas and, by extension, the entire Yoruba community.

“While we censure Obasanjo’s arrogance, we also express our disappointment in the Obas who attended the event and acquiesced to the commands of someone considered their junior.

“The Concerned Omo Yoruba remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the honor, heritage, and dignity of the Yoruba race in every aspect.”

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