Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has met with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, in a closed-door session said to be focused on fostering unity among Yoruba traditional institutions and advancing the development of the southwest.
Obasanjo, who was accompanied by his daughter, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, and a delegation of dignitaries, was warmly received at the Alaafin’s palace in Oyo Town on Saturday.
According to a palace source who spoke on condition of anonymity, the highly confidential talks centred on strengthening collaboration between political leaders and traditional rulers. The source described the meeting as a significant step toward consolidating unity within the Yoruba race.
“The meeting was highly confidential, and the primary focus was on strengthening the unity of our traditional institutions. Both leaders recognised that for the Yoruba people to thrive, the various traditional bodies must work together seamlessly,” the source told Vanguard.
Obasanjo, widely regarded as a respected elder statesman and advocate of national cohesion, reportedly stressed that prosperity in Yorubaland could only be achieved through cooperation between political authority and traditional guidance.
The Alaafin, in his remarks, also underscored the importance of collective action. He was quoted as saying: “Our race has always been strong because of our unity. In today’s world, the Yoruba people need both political will and traditional guidance. Together, we can chart a path that ensures the welfare of our people and the preservation of our culture.”
The meeting is seen as part of broader efforts by Yoruba leaders to consolidate unity amid Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
