The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi has advised the kingmakers to give priority to the development of culture and traditions.
Oba Ogunwusi gave the advice on Saturday during the installation ceremony of the new Obalodo of Oye kingdom, Chief Bamitale Oguntoyinbo in Oye-Ekiti.
The traditional ruler said the idea of selecting princes who have lived in Canada or United States of America (USA) for many years to become king would bury the values and norms of the community.
Oba Ogunwusi who was represented by Oba Isoro of Ile-Ife, Olajire Adewole said he was delighted to visit Oye kingdom to celebrate with the new Obalodo.
” I am delighted and happy to be in Oye kingdom to celebrate the installation of new Obalodo, who is culture and traditions oriented.
” He knows the origin of Ilodo and committed to the development of the community.
” I want to use this opportunity, to urge our kingmakers to always select princes who are culture and traditions oriented to become king.
” The culture and traditions of many community have been buried because some of their kings studied and lived in Canada, London or USA, by so doing , they see some of the festivals has a taboo.
” May the reign of our new Obalodo be blessed with riches, peace , unity and development,” he said.
In his address, the new Obalodo of Oye kingdom, Chief Bamitale Oguntoyinbo thanked God for the success of his installation ceremony.
He thanked the institution of Obalodo that some individuals wanted to bury but they were not successful.
” The institution of Obalodo has a purpose , that is why it has been possible for me to be installed.
” I feel elated, I am excited and I feel fulfilled to become the new Obalodo of Oye kingdom.
” The significant of Obalodo is multi dimensional, you can see how people have been celebrating with us, keeping hope alive that the institution of Obalodo has come to stay.
” Secondly, the people are very happy that the custodian of Ode festival has been installed to further promote the development of the community,” he said.
Chief Oguntoyinbo promised to promote unity among his people to enhance rapid development of Oye kingdom.
Earlier, the Leader of Oye women, High Chief Olufunke Oguntoye led women of the community to pay homage to Obalodo.
Oguntoye described the new Obalodo as an humble person, prominent personality, well respected and lover of development.
She assured him of the women’s unconditional support and prayed for his successful tenure with longlife and prosperity.(NAN)