By John Dike Osogbo
— seeks stronger cultural, historical and economic ties between Ile-Ife and Elem Kalabari
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has hosted the Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem-Kalabari, Torusarama-Piri, Rivers State, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, at his Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State,
The visit was part of efforts to strengthen cultural relations and cooperation among traditional institutions in Nigeria.
During the visit, Dokubo-Asari, also known as Da Amakiri Tubo, formally invited the Ooni to the forthcoming Se Diye (Coronation) ceremony scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Buguma, Rivers State.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare.
Speaking during the visit, Dokubo-Asari underscored the importance of cordial relationships among traditional rulers, describing traditional institutions as critical to community development, conflict resolution and the preservation of cultural heritage.
He acknowledged the Ooni’s leadership and commitment to peace, unity and responsible traditional stewardship, noting that the visit provided an opportunity to deepen the bonds of brotherhood among traditional institutions across the country.
Responding, the Ooni, who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, expressed appreciation for the visit and the invitation to the coronation ceremony.
The monarch described the engagement as a welcome development in efforts to strengthen relationships among traditional rulers from different parts of Nigeria.
He stressed the need for greater cooperation among traditional institutions to promote national unity, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among the country’s diverse cultural communities.
The Ooni also expressed his desire to establish stronger cultural, historical and economic ties between Ile-Ife and Elem Kalabari, noting that sustained engagement between the two traditional institutions could deepen understanding of Nigeria’s diverse cultural identities and shared heritage.
Speaking warmly about his guest, the monarch described Dokubo-Asari as a fearless personality, adding humorously that “the fear of Asari Dokubo is the beginning of wisdom.”
He commended the Kalabari monarch for the wisdom and maturity with which he had conducted himself since ascending the throne, stressing that effective traditional leadership requires courage, prudence and a strong commitment to the welfare of the people.
The Ooni also acknowledged Dokubo-Asari’s relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting the importance of constructive engagement among traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders in advancing peace and national development.
He reiterated that stronger historical and cultural connections among traditional institutions could serve as bridges for promoting unity and cooperation across ethnic and geographical boundaries.
As a mark of honour and goodwill, the Ooni presented a bronze artwork to Dokubo-Asari during the visit
Explaining the significance of the gift, the monarch said it symbolised the importance of the people to a leader, emphasising that the strength of any traditional institution ultimately rests on the support, loyalty and well-being of the people it serves.
