Alaafin of Oyo Affirms Itsekiri as True Yoruba Descendants

In a significant reaffirmation of cultural heritage, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has declared that the Itsekiri people are true descendants of Oduduwa and an integral part of the Yoruba nation. This historic statement was made over the weekend during a landmark visit to his palace by a distinguished delegation of Warri chiefs and Itsekiri leaders, led by the Iyasere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Amatsereuleghe.

The delegation's visit was not just ceremonial but marked a significant step towards fostering closer ethnic ties between the Yoruba and Itsekiri communities. Chief Amatsereuleghe, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of the visit as a reunion, aimed at reinforcing the cultural and ancestral bonds that unite both ethnic groups. He reiterated that the Itsekiri, although residing in Delta State, have always identified with their Yoruba roots, as reflected in their language, customs, and oral traditions passed down through generations.

“This is a historic reunion and a deliberate effort to reinforce the bridge of solidarity between the Itsekiri and Yoruba people. There is no ambiguity about our Yoruba origin. It is evident in our language, culture, and oral traditions passed down through generations,” Chief Amatsereuleghe stated. He further noted that the Itsekiri people have often faced a sense of marginalization and have been seeking stronger acknowledgment of their Yoruba heritage in the broader national dialogue.

Oba Owoade, welcoming the delegation, affirmed the unbreakable bond between the Itsekiri and Yoruba people. He expressed his deep personal connection to the Itsekiri, recalling his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) experience in Warri, which gave him a profound understanding of their culture. According to the monarch, this firsthand experience strengthened his belief in the shared ancestry and cultural lineage of both groups.

The Alaafin emphasized that the Yoruba people, irrespective of their geographical location, must remain united. He stated, “We are bound by blood. What affects you affects the entire Yoruba people. We share the same ancestry, history, and aspirations. The time has come for unity and collaboration.” Oba Owoade’s remarks resonated with a call for collective solidarity, both within Nigeria and across the Yoruba diaspora.

The monarch also pledged to be a unifying force for all Yoruba-descended communities, advocating for renewed cultural and political cooperation to address historical divisions. His stance reflects a broader vision of Yoruba unity, transcending state and regional boundaries. This vision was warmly embraced by the Itsekiri delegation, who expressed their gratitude for the Alaafin’s open acknowledgment of their Yoruba heritage.

The declaration has sparked discussions among historians and cultural advocates who view it as a progressive move towards recognizing the intricate ethnic and historical ties within Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape. By openly affirming the Yoruba ancestry of the Itsekiri people, Oba Owoade aims to bridge historical gaps and promote a more inclusive sense of identity among Yoruba-descended communities.

This historic moment not only strengthens the bond between the Yoruba and Itsekiri but also sets a precedent for other ethnic groups in Nigeria to embrace and acknowledge their intertwined histories. As Oba Owoade continues to advocate for Yoruba unity, his call for collaboration marks a new chapter in the cultural reconciliation between the Itsekiri and the Yoruba people.