Traditional Installations rites for Ooni-designate, Prince Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has entered its second day as members of Isoro cult barred visitors from paying visit on him. Although Prince Ogunwusi entered Ilofi, a place an Ooni-elect is prepared for the throne on Thursday, full traditional rites only commenced yesterday.
Saturday Vanguard investigation in the ancient city of Ile-Ife yesterday revealed the heavy presence of security around Iremo where Ilofi is located and residents appeared to be avoiding the area.
Other rites expected to be performed on the Ooni designate according to sources is lighting of ancient traditional lambs, each of which has its significant role in the ancient town.
A shop owner around Iremo Quarters told our correspondent that the deserted street was not unconnected with the ongoing rites, adding that many people, despite assurances by the traditional chiefs, still entertained fear.
Another source also said heavily armed security men were guiding Ilofi, and that, only members of Isoro Cult were allowed into the premises. A shop owner along Iremo road, in a chat with newsmen, said: “some of us chose not to open shop for business because of the ongoing rites.
“We have been assured that business can go on. Apart from the ongoing rites, Ife is also in celebration mood and some of us chose to just enjoy the moment with other Ife indigenes.” Across Ife metropolis, the ongoing installation rites dominated discussions, while residents were also speaking on their expectations from the the new monarch.
Meanwhile, the Oluomo of Ife and former Chairman Ife East Local Council, State of Osun, Chief Gbenga Owolabi has described the emergence of Ooni elect as long expected one saying, he would transform the town beyond expectation. He felicitated with him on his appointment by the state government as Oba elect and prayed to God to guide and give him wisdom of governance.
Owolabi expressed delight at the choice of the new Ooni-elect by Ife kingmakers while speaking with journalists at Ile-Ife. He said “I charge the new Oba to bring his vibrancy of youth, wide contacts and wealth of business experience to bear in the development of Ile-Ife and the State of Osun. “I also implore him to work assiduously towards the enhancement and sustenance of the globally- acclaimed rich cultural heritage of the Yorubas as a means of uniting the race for peace and progress.” Vanguard
