Former Ghananian President Visits Ooni Of Ife

By Sodiq Lawal

The former president of Ghana, John Mahama, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwunsi.

The Former Ghanian Leader arrived the palace at 11:33am with his entourage and some dignitaries from Ghana.

Prominent traditional rulers and notable indigenes of Ife such as Bashorun Dele Momodu  and others, joined the Ooni to receive the former president.

Cultural troupes from Ghana, entertainers and drummers in Ile Ife were seen drumming, singing and dancing as early as 10am to herald the visit of the Ex-President.

While addressing the audience, Mahama commended the Ooni for promoting and preserving the rich Yoruba cultural heritage.

When asked why he visited the Ooni, he said that; ” As a student of history, I learnt a lot about  Ife. The Ooni visited Ghana few years back when I was the president. He came to visit several descendants of Ife in Ghana and he took the opportunity to visit me when I invited him.

“He invited me to pay him a visit to Ile Ife. He did this not because I am the president of Ghana but he invited me because of personal things of who I am. And so, the invitation is still valid.

“For the last two years, I have been wanting to re-pay his visit but i have been constrained with lot of events.

“A few months ago, my brother, ex-president Jonathan asked me to foreword his book which was launched yesterday and  he extended an invitation to me as his guest of honour.

” So being in Abuja and so close to Ife. I said I will not miss this opportunity to repay  this kind visit our Majesty paid me in Ghana.”

While acknowledging Ile Ife as the source, he said that; “When I arrived here this morning, I am not disappointed because I have read that culture and history resides in Ife and it has been actually proven when I stepped out of the car.

” I promise Kabieysi that at appropriate time, I will come and spend a few days in Ife not only to visit the palace but to know the city better. ”

In his remarks, the Ooni lauded the former president for exhibiting humility with his visit.

His words ” When I visited Ghana, he didn’t even wait for any aide to do anything for me. He did it by himself. He made tea and offer me by himself. There is no difference between when he was in power and when he was not. That’s humility and simplicity.

“When I told the governor of Osun about his visitation. He said I must make sure you come and see him, that you are a very good man.

” We thank God for your life. That presidential blood is still in you. There were no boundaries in Africa before, we live in a big happy family. You are our political leader not only in Ghana but across Africa.”

Ooni Ogunwunsi however urged African Political Leaders to always remember the Transient nature of Power.

” Power belongs to God Almighty. It doesn’t belong to anybody. It is only God that gives power and takes it,” the Ooni said.