Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, has warned politicians not to use venues of cultural events as battle field.
In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on media, Kehinde Aderemi, Adams said: “The warning came on the heels of the recent crisis that occurred at the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi 111 during the grand finale ceremony of the Oranyan festival, where two persons were killed”.
Adams, who was in Canada at the time of the event, described the incident as sad, saying it was a calculated effort of some people, most especially, the politicians to use the avenue to settle political scores.
“I want to also make it clear that Alaafin’s stool is sacred; the palace is sanctified as a cultural abode for all sons and daughters of the Yoruba race. Therefore, the palace should not be turned to a battle field for political thuggery and war. The role played by Alaafin, Ooni , Awujale of Ijebu land and other prominent monarchs, especially, in the promotion of the Yoruba culture and tradition is next to none. It is the duty of our monarchs to promote our culture, and they have demonstrated unequal determination and interest in sustaining the cultural identities of the Yoruba race; therefore, it is out of place to discourage our monarchs from doing their sacred duties”.
He, however, urged organizers of cultural event to, as a matter of necessity, provide effective security for guests and attendees of event. This, he said, is the best measure to ensure security of lives and property. Adams also advised politicians to be magnanimous in handling political issues.
“Event such as the just concluded Oranyan Festival is a cultural fiesta, for the promotion of our cultural identities, tradition and core values, therefore, we must refrain from using such platform as forum for riot and senseless killings,” he said.
