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The Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere has asked former President Olusegun Obasanjo to apologise to the Oyo traditional rulers.
On September 15, Obasanjo ordered some traditional rulers to stand up and greet him during the commissioning of a road project in Oyo State.
The former President’s action has caused a stir among Nigerians with many criticising Obasanjo, accusing him of ridiculing the nation’s traditional institution.
In a statement on Wednesday, Afenifere described Obasanjo’s action as shocking, saying the former President acted like a military commander giving orders to his troops.
“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 communique issued by Afenifere’s spokesman, Mr Jare Ajayi, read.
“In view of the attempt to ridicule the respected Obaship institution in Yorubaland, Afenifere hereby demands an unreserved public apology to Obas from former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Our tradition describes who we are.
“As such, no effort must be spared to prevent the rubishing of our noble tradition. In that wise, it’s hereby recommended that royal fathers are spared the trouble to stand up at public functions as obtained in the United Kingdom, among others.”
The group also decried the insecurity situation in the country, urging the Federal Government and security agencies to be more decisive and more proactive.
“Deliberate efforts should be made to get the youths gainfully engaged so as to make them unavailable for anti-social and inhuman activities.
“Cases of banditry and terrorism be discharged expeditiously. Perpetrators of banditry should be made to pay heavy prices,” Afenifere said.
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