His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the Alaafin of Oyo, has paid a courtesy visit to the Onikoyi of Yorubaland, Aare Tomori Williams.
The colourful event, which was held at the palatial Olaleye Newtown, Lagos office of Aare Williams, had all the trappings of culture and tradition, with notable individuals from different walks of life in attendance.
Speaking with journalists during the visit, Oba Owoade, who described Aare Williams as his son, noted that it was a pleasure seeing him doing very well, adding that he was happy to have visited.
“I came to Lagos, and I thought it was an opportunity to see one of my sons, the Aare Onikoyi of Yorubaland, Aare Tomori Williams. It’s a pleasure seeing him doing very well, and I am glad to be here today,” the monarch said.
Oba Owoade, who also spoke on uniting the Yoruba people, noted that he has always been working in collaboration with his chiefs, adding that Aare Williams is one of those who have been living up to expectations.
“As a king, I have always been working in collaboration with some of my chiefs. I believe that when we work together, we can push Yoruba forward and make the Yoruba Kingdom a better place.”
On his part, Aare Williams, one of the notable chiefs of the Alaafin of Oyo and indeed the Yoruba race, described the visit as highly historical and very significant. He noted that the visit was to create a link and rapport between the revered imperial majesty and some top members of his cabinet, including himself, adding that it was also an opportunity for him to declare his loyalty and continued support for the Alaafin’s reign.
He further added that the Aare Onikoyi is the number one citizen among all the Onikoyi all over the world, noting that he is the head of the war clan in the entire Yoruba race because the Onikoyi was known for war exploits during the old Oyo Empire.
Furthermore, he opined that the visit is highly significant, stating that the monarch used the opportunity of being in Lagos to check on him and to assure that he would continually lead his people right.
