The Asiwaju Onigbagbo Akile of Ijebuland, Chief Funlola Okunowo, has described the cordial relationship existing among adherents of the different faiths in Ijebu to the hard work put in by the community’s present and past leadership, to ensure peace in the land.
Chief Okunowo, who is also the Bobasuwa of Ijebuland, stated that for decades, Christians, Muslims and traditionalists had been coexisting under the umbrella of Ajumosepo Onigbagbo, a development, he believed had enhanced social cohesion in the community and made it the most religious tolerant in the country.
He expressed the optimism that his new role as the Asiwaju Onigbagbo Akile of Ijebuland will provide him the opportunity to further push the cause of Christianity and enhance the fortunes of Ijebu Christians and further cement the relationship existing among the different faiths in the land.
The 16th President of the Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria also expressed his readiness to take on the new task; having fully understudied his father, who had also served as a rallying point for Christianity and Christians in the community, before he demised in 1987.
He stated that the title, now going beyond Ijebu-Ode to incorporate every Christian in Ijebuland, will avail him the opportunity to serve all Christians in Ijebuland.
“The Ijebu people have always cooperated in worship. Otunba Shubomi Balogun became the second Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Ijebuland. But, this is the first time in the history of Ijebuland that the title Asiwaju Onigbagbo Akile-Ijebu, is going beyond Ijebu-Ode. Before, it was only in Ijebu-Ode.
“We thank God for the works of our royal father, the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona. He has been able to bring everybody together and I am the beneficiary of that recognition,” he added.
Going down memory lane, Chief Okunowo whose wife, Morenikeji will also be installed the Yeye Ashiwaju Onigbagbo Akile-Ijebu on same date, believed his role as the Bobasuwa of Ijebuland will not conflict with his new role as the Asiwaju Onigbagbo.
“There is absolutely no conflict. Rather I see them as complimentary. My role as Bobasuwa is to Ijebuland and the Kabiyesi Awujale, while that of Asiwaju Onigbagbo is for the Christians in Ijebuland
“The law was even passed, and promoted by the Awujale that obas should be buried according to their faith, when they died. When I took on the post of Bobasuwa, I swear on the Bible, nobody is forced to swear on what they do not believe. So nothing like conflict here,” he said.
Speaking on roles for traditional in Nigeria, Chief Okunowo said traditional leaders in the country should be given key roles to play in government, without being political, since they remain the nearest institution to the people.
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