The Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja 11, has installed President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama as the Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source.
Arriving at the Ooni’s palace on Monday amid fanfare and heightened security, President Mahama was received by the Ooni, who is also Co-Chairman of the National Traditional Council of Nigeria.
The Installation Ceremony took place on Monday, at Afewonro Park, Enuwa Square, Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife.
The event drew a gathering of traditional rulers and dignitaries from across Yorubaland and Ghana alongside cultural leaders and other notable personalities.
The Ooni Ogunwusi while speaking at the installation ceremony described President Mahama, as a symbol of African unity, cultural continuity and economic reform, noting that the African continent shares common roots beyond modern political boundaries.
According to the monarch, Mahama’s relationship with Ile-Ife and the palace predates his current recognition, recalling that the Ghanaian leader had maintained close ties with the palace.
“This palace is not new to you. You have been here before, and throughout my journey to becoming the Ooni of Ife, you have been part of that journey. You have grown with us in our midst,” the Ooni said.
Ooni Ogunwusi emphasised that there are no real boundaries between Nigeria and Ghana, and indeed across Africa, stressing the deep cultural and historical connections that bind Africans together. He cited linguistic similarities between the Yoruba people and the Ga people of Ghana as evidence of shared ancestry.
“In Ghana you say Akwaabo, here we say Ekaabo. Are they not the same? We are one people and one big family,” he added.
The Ooni further described Ile-Ife as Mahama’s home, recalling how the president continued to identify with the city, often expressing a deep interest in the history and heritage of Ife.
He disclosed that during one of Mahama’s visits to Ile-Ife after leaving office some years ago, prayers were offered to the ancestors, accompanied by a prophetic declaration that he would return to leadership as President of Ghana, a declaration that has now come to pass with his return to office as President.
“To the glory of God, today you are truly a reformer. You achieved what many thought was impossible. Immediately you assumed office for a second term, the economy of Ghana experienced a remarkable turnaround. We are very proud of you,” the Ooni said.
The Ooni commended Mahama’s economic acumen, describing him as a leader with a special “economic touch,” and noted that the impact of his leadership in Ghana is already resonating across the African continent and the global Black race.
He expressed strong optimism that Mahama’s influence would extend further, projecting that he would one day serve as President and Chairman of the African Union.
“You are a leader of great refinement, vision and purpose. I am deeply grateful and proud of you,” the Ooni concluded.
While speaking also, the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, commended President Mahama for his outstanding contributions to peace, unity and regional stability across Africa and the global community.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, described Mahama’s role in mediating between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and countries in the Sahel region as a landmark intervention at a critical time when tensions in the sub-region have heightened and many stakeholders are “beating the drums of war.”
He noted that rather than promoting conflict, Mahama chose the path of dialogue by engaging leaders in the Sahel region, thereby fostering understanding, reconciliation and regional cooperation.
The Osun governor further praised the former Ghanaian president for his consistent presence on the global stage, where he has continued to advocate for a more united and peaceful world order.
“President Mahama is a strong advocate of peace and unity, not only within West Africa but across the world. His commitment to diplomacy, dialogue and coexistence has earned him respect beyond national and continental boundaries,” Adeleke said.
He described Mahama’s installation as Aare Atayato Oodua of the Source as well deserved, stressing that the honour reflects his lifelong dedication to peace-building and humanitarian ideals.
“Mahama is truly a global peace ambassador. I warmly congratulate you on this installation and recognition for your unwavering commitment to peace and unity,” the governor added.
In his reaction, President Mahama appreciated Ooni for dim it fit for his installation as Aare Atayeto Oodua and applauded Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Business Mogul, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, among others in attendance.
President Mahama maintained that the people of Ile-Ife and Ghana are one family, while noting that the people of Accra trace their ancestral origins to Ile-Ife.
The newly installed Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source assured that God had brought them together for a divine purpose, dedicated the chieftaincy title to the people of Ghana, and pledged to strengthen unity and harmony between Ghana and Nigeria.
“As long as I still remain President of Ghana, I’ll ensure that I bring the two countries together and bridge the gap between the departed countries and the ECOWAS,” he said.
Signed:
Otunba Moses Olafare,
Director, Media & Public Affairs,
Ooni’s Palace.
Ile-Ife.
