By John Dike, Osogbo
“No war can ever happen again between Ife and Modakeke, not under my reign as Arole Oduduwa.
“Those who instigate trouble are not our people — they are thieves. Let’s not give them space.”
These were the words of the Ooni of Ife and Arole Oduduwa, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, at the palace of the Ogunsua, Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, at the weekend, as he paid a historic visit to Modakeke.
The Ooni wrapped up these noble wishes with heartfelt prayers for peace, unity, and progress for both communities, encouraging the youth in both to focus on hard work and shun violence.
Massive crowds welcomed the Ooni to Modakeke for the visit.
In what many described as a “homecoming” and a renewed affirmation of peace between Ile-Ife and Modakeke, the whole town burst out in joy which reverberated throughout the visit.
Indeed, the streets of Modakeke were filled with jubilant crowds comprising traditional rulers, community leaders, residents, cultural groups, and well-wishers, all eager to welcome the revered monarch.
Traditional drummers and dancers set the tone as the Ooni arrived at the newly constructed Ogunsua Palace, where he was warmly received in an atmosphere charged with excitement and respect.
The visit marked a major milestone in the ongoing reconciliation and peace-building efforts between the two historically linked communities.
In his welcome address, Oba Toriola commended the Ooni’s leadership, describing him as “the glory of Yorubaland whose heart is always inclined towards peace.”
But he raised concerns over increasing security threats in the Southwest Region and made a passionate case for the emergence of an Ife-born governor in the near political future.
The Ogunsua told the Ooni, “Kabiyesi, we see what you are doing across Yorubaland, both at home and abroad. Peace is reigning because of your wisdom.
“But we must strengthen local security structures. Also, the time has come for an Ife-born governor — and we must work together to make it a reality.”
In his speech, the President of the Modakeke Progressive Union (MPU), Prof Olawunmi, described the day as “heroic,” noting that the enduring efforts of both monarchs toward peace serve as a beacon of hope for the younger generation.
He urged both communities to continue resolving disputes through dialogue rather than litigation or political conflict
Responding, the Ooni expressed deep appreciation for the rousing reception and praised the developmental strides made in Modakeke under Oba Toriola’s reign — particularly the successful construction of the new palace.
He promised continued support for Modakeke and confirmed his attendance at the forthcoming Akoraye Day celebration.
“As requested, I will not be far away from Modakeke. This is my home. Let us bury the past. Anyone who does not want peace should be helped to stay away.”
The royal father condemned any attempts by individuals to reignite tension during the farming season or under the guise of historical rivalry.
For many years, both neighbouring communities had been at daggers drawn, engaging in senseless violence which had claimed many victims, and destroyed valuable properties.
But for the first time in many years, the tone of hostility changed to that of peace, unity, friendship and camaraderie at the weekend with the Ooni’s visit.
The event drew several prominent traditional and community leaders, including Oba Eludoja Elugbemi (Obalaaye of Iraye Kingdom), Lowa Ate of Ile-Ife, Arode of Ile-Ife, Oosa of Modakeke, Asipa Balogun of Modakeke, Balogun Iyalode of Modakeke, and Prof Olawunmi (President, MPU), among others from across Osun State.
