The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere has called on former President Olusegun Obasanjo to issue a public apology to the Oyo traditional rulers.
The demand comes in the wake of an incident on September 15, where Obasanjo ordered traditional rulers to stand up and greet him during the commissioning of a road project in Oyo State.
This action by the former President has sparked widespread criticism and controversy, with many Nigerians condemning Obasanjo for what they perceive as the denigration of the nation’s traditional institutions.
Afenifere, in a statement released on Wednesday, expressed its shock at Obasanjo’s behaviour, likening it to a military commander giving orders to his troops.
Afenifere’s spokesman, Mr. Jare Ajayi, conveyed the group’s stance, saying, “We, Yoruba, respect our traditional institutions, the arrowhead of which is our traditional rulers, who, traditionally and spiritually, have acquired the status of deities. It’s not surprising that they are referred to as ‘Igbakeji Orisa’ (second in command to the gods).”
The statement further demanded an unreserved public apology from the former President to the Oyo traditional rulers, emphasising the importance of preserving and respecting Yoruba tradition.
Afenifere also recommended that royal fathers be spared the need to stand up at public functions, drawing inspiration from practices in the United Kingdom and other nations.
In addition to addressing the incident involving Obasanjo, Afenifere voiced its concerns about the ongoing insecurity in the country.
The group urged the Federal Government and security agencies to take decisive and proactive measures to address the situation.
They stressed the importance of creating opportunities for gainful employment for the youth to deter them from engaging in anti-social and criminal activities.
Afenifere also called for the swift resolution of cases related to banditry and terrorism, advocating for heavy penalties for the perpetrators.
