Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Monday delivered a resounding message of African unity as he conferred the prestigious chieftaincy title of Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source on Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, emphasizing that Africans remain “one people, one family” despite colonial-era borders.
The ceremony, held at Afewonro Park within the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, attracted traditional rulers, political figures, and cultural dignitaries from both Yorubaland and Ghana, highlighting Ile-Ife’s historical significance as the spiritual homeland of the Yoruba people.
Receiving President Mahama with full honours and tight security, the Ooni, who also serves as Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, described the Ghanaian leader as a symbol of cultural continuity, economic reform, and Pan-African solidarity.
“This palace is familiar to you. You have been part of our journey and have grown with us,” Oba Ogunwusi remarked, acknowledging Mahama’s enduring connection with Ile-Ife even prior to his return to the presidency of Ghana.
The monarch further stressed that artificial boundaries imposed during colonial rule should not diminish Africa’s shared heritage, citing linguistic and cultural ties between the Yoruba and Ghana people.
“In Ghana, you say ‘Akwaabo,’ and here we say ‘Ekaabo.’ Are they not the same? We are one people, one family,” the Ooni declared.
Oba Ogunwusi recalled that during a previous visit to Ile-Ife after leaving office, prayers were offered with a prophetic declaration that Mahama would return to leadership, a prophecy he noted has since come to pass.
“To the glory of God, you are now a true reformer. Upon assuming office for a second term, Ghana’s economy witnessed a remarkable turnaround. We are immensely proud of your leadership,” he said, commending Mahama’s economic achievements and expressing confidence in his potential influence on the African Union.
In his acceptance address, President Mahama expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Ooni and the people of Ile-Ife, emphasising the ancestral links between Ghana and Nigeria.
“The people of Accra trace their lineage to Ile-Ife. We are one family,” Mahama affirmed, dedicating the chieftaincy title to all Ghanaians.
He also pledged to leverage his new role to strengthen bilateral relations and foster reconciliation within West Africa.
“As long as I serve as President of Ghana, I will work to deepen ties between our nations and bridge divides within ECOWAS,” he promised.
