- The Alaafin of Oyo, emphasizes the ancestral connection between the Itsekiri people and the Yoruba nation.
- He asserts that the Itsekiri are direct descendants of Oduduwa, a significant figure in Yoruba history.
- This statement reinforces the cultural and historical ties within the Yoruba community.
In a powerful reaffirmation of ancestral ties, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has stated that the Itsekiri people are direct descendants of Oduduwa and form an integral part of the Yoruba nation.
This declaration was made over the weekend during a significant visit to the Alaafin’s palace by a high-ranking delegation of Warri chiefs and Itsekiri leaders. The group, led by the Iyasere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Amatsereuleghe, visited to extend their congratulations to Oba Owoade on his ascension to one of Yorubaland’s most esteemed thrones and to strengthen ethnic relations.
Chief Amatsereuleghe emphasized that the visit was more than ceremonial, describing it as a meaningful step toward reaffirming shared roots and reinforcing long-standing cultural bonds between the Itsekiri and Yoruba people.
“This is a historic reunion and a deliberate effort to reinforce the bridge of solidarity between the Itsekiri and Yoruba people. There is no ambiguity about our Yoruba origin. It is evident in our language, culture and oral traditions passed down through generations,” he said.
He also pointed out that, although the Itsekiri reside in Delta State, they have often experienced a sense of marginalization and are seeking greater acknowledgment of their Yoruba heritage in national conversations and policy-making.
Oba Owoade received the visitors warmly and reiterated the strong ancestral links connecting the two ethnic groups.
“We are bound by blood. What affects you affects the entire Yoruba people. We share the same ancestry, history, and aspirations. The time has come for unity and collaboration,” the monarch declared.
He also shared a personal connection with the Itsekiri people, recalling his time spent in Warri during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). He said the experience gave him firsthand exposure to Itsekiri traditions and further reinforced his belief in their Yoruba origin.
The Alaafin pledged to be a symbol of unity for all communities of Yoruba descent, both within Nigeria and throughout the diaspora. He encouraged renewed efforts in cultural and political partnerships to mend past divisions and build a stronger, united future.
