The Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, has raised concerns over the escalating insecurity in Osun State, describing the situation as deeply troubling.
Baxter made this observation on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, at his palace in Ile-Ife. His remarks were captured in a press release signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, and shared with the media on Thursday.
During the visit, the British envoy condemned the destruction of lives and property due to political violence, noting that it threatens the peace for which Osun has historically been known.
“I have known Osun State to be a peaceful place for the past 15 years. Seeing and hearing about the destruction of lives and properties for political reasons is deeply condemnable,” Baxter stated.
Baxter called on the Ooni to take a leading role in restoring peace and stability to the state. He also highlighted the longstanding historical ties between Ile-Ife and Britain, emphasizing the importance of maintaining this bond.
“The first Governor of Western Nigeria, Ooni Adesoji Aderemi, established a strong institutional relationship with Buckingham Palace in London. This relationship was further strengthened by your predecessor, Ooni Okunade Sijuwade. Please, do not let the bond break during your reign as the present Ooni of Ife and the overall king of the Yoruba race,” he added.
In response, the Ooni of Ife condemned the political violence and called on all political stakeholders to prioritize the state’s welfare over personal ambitions.
“The destruction of lives and properties for political gains is unwarranted. Osun has been known for its peace and harmony over the years, as the British Deputy High Commissioner has noted. On behalf of the Osun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, I call on all politicians in Osun State to sheath their swords and remember that no one is greater than the state,” Oba Ogunwusi declared.
As Co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, the Ooni extended condolences to families of those who lost their lives and prayed for the recovery of the injured. He assured Baxter that traditional rulers were actively working to restore peace and normalcy.
The visit also coincided with the reception of the new Elerin of Erin-Ile in Kwara State, Oba Jimoh Adesoye, who expressed gratitude to the Ooni for his support during his journey to the throne.
“I deeply appreciate the Ooni for granting us an audience on short notice despite his busy schedule. I also thank him for his unwavering support throughout my journey to the throne,” Oba Adesoye said.
Ooni Ogunwusi, while praying for the new Elerin, emphasized the historical ties between Ile-Ife and Erin-Ile, wishing him longevity and prosperity during his reign.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Obalufe of Ife, notable high chiefs, the Olojoku of Ojoku in Kwara State, Oba Abdulrasak Adegboyega Afolabi, the Elerin of Erin-Osun in Osun State, Oba Yusuf Oyagbodun, Olori Sherifat Adesoye, Sooko Adegboyega Ogunwusi, and members of the Elerin’s council.
