The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has hosted the Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem-Kalabari, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, as both traditional leaders called for stronger cultural ties and cooperation among Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
The visit also provided an opportunity for Dokubo-Asari to formally invite the Ooni to his forthcoming Se Diye, or coronation ceremony, scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Buguma, Rivers State.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by Sodiq Lawal, Senior Media Officer at the Ooni’s Palace, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare.
During the meeting, Dokubo-Asari, also known as Da Amakiri Tubo, highlighted the importance of maintaining cordial relationships among traditional rulers, noting that traditional institutions play significant roles in community development, conflict resolution and the preservation of cultural heritage.
He praised the Ooni for his leadership and commitment to peace and unity, describing the visit as an opportunity to strengthen relationships among traditional institutions across the country.
In his response, the Ooni welcomed his guest and expressed appreciation for the invitation to the coronation ceremony.
The monarch, who is also the co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, stressed that cooperation among traditional rulers was important for promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among Nigeria’s diverse cultural groups.
He also expressed interest in building stronger cultural, historical and economic relationships between Ile-Ife, widely regarded as an important centre of Yoruba history, and the Elem-Kalabari traditional institution in Rivers State.
According to the Ooni, closer engagement between traditional institutions could help Nigerians better understand their different cultural identities while recognising the history and heritage they share.
Speaking warmly about Dokubo-Asari, the Ooni praised the monarch for what he described as the wisdom and maturity with which he had handled his responsibilities since ascending the throne.
He added humorously that “the fear of Asari Dokubo is the beginning of wisdom,” while commending his guest’s approach to traditional leadership.
The Ooni also acknowledged Dokubo-Asari’s relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting the importance of constructive engagement among traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders in promoting peace and national development.
As part of the visit, the Ooni presented Dokubo-Asari with a bronze artwork as a gesture of honour and goodwill.
Explaining the significance of the gift, he said the people remained central to any leader’s authority, stressing that the strength of a traditional institution ultimately depended on the support, loyalty and well-being of the people it served.
The meeting underscored the role traditional rulers can play in building relationships across ethnic and geographical boundaries, with both monarchs expressing support for greater cooperation, cultural understanding and peaceful coexistence.
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