The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has stated that the harmonisation of norms and values embedded in traditional institutions with the modern system of governance is the only antidote to reducing, if not completely eradicating, the problems of access to justice and conflict resolution in the country.
Oba Owoade gave this advice when he received traditional rulers from the Ibarapa area of Oyo State who paid him a courtesy visit.
A release signed by the director of media and publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, quoted the Paramount Ruler as saying that it is imperative because socio-cultural norms embedded in traditional institutions have remained an integral part of the people.
The Alaafin, who declared that his good plans for the people of the ancient town of Oyo and Yorubaland remain unshaken, noted that apart from being a powerful human tool for survival, defined cultural norms and values also form the basis of the existence of every civilized society, as they bring order, which in turn makes the society devoid of any state of lawlessness.
The Alaafin stated that he is not just a traditional ruler but also a key figure who should serve as a bridge between traditional institutions and modern governance.
He said, “The Alaafin stool is a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful empires.
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“The Oyo Empire was once the political and military stronghold of the Yoruba people, renowned for its administrative sophistication, military prowess, and cultural influence.
“The Alaafin, as the paramount ruler, has always been the custodian of its traditions, the unifying force of the Yoruba people, and a bridge between the past and the future.”
Oba Owoade, who solicited the same support accorded to his predecessor, late Oba Lamidi Oayiwola Adeyemi III, assured the Ibarapa monarchs of following in his indelible traits.
Earlier in his address, the Olu of Igbo-Ora Land, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, who led other Ibarapa monarch’s on courtesy visit said, “As the Alaafin assumed the sacred responsibility, we are confident that your wisdom, leadership, and dedication will further strengthen the unity and progress of Oyo Kingdom, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.
“You are on the threshold of history as the successor to Oba Adeyemi III, one of the most influential and longest-reigning monarchs in Yoruba history”.