OONI HOSTS FORMER PRESIDENT MAHAMA OF GHANA

The monarch in the statement noted that, “before the advent of the Western civilization, there were no boundaries between the African nations and communities. We are one big family. But it gladdens my heart that with committed individuals like President Mahama, we have remained that united big family working together for the progress of the African continent.”

Penpushing further reports that, the royal father who is a co-chairman of National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, accompanied by his wife, Silekuola Naomi Ogunwusi, prayed for the former president.

He also called on the Isoros (Custodians of the 201 deities of Ile Ife Kingdom), who jointly offered spiritual blessings to  Mahama, lauding the former president for exhibiting humility and simplicity.

“When I was in Ghana to honour Mr President two years ago, he was in power. To the glory of God, he displayed humility and simplicity. He didn’t even wait for any aide to do anything for me. He did it by himself. He made tea and offered me by himself. There is no difference between when he was in power and when he was not. That’s humility and simplicity,” the Ooni said.

Earlier on his speech, the visiting former Ghanaian leader thanked the monarch for the warm reception, describing the Ife kingdom as the root of the rich African culture, adding, “I am overwhelmed by the welcome I got and the current atmosphere since I stepped out of the car. The drums, dance, songs, dressing and others are indeed wonderful,” .

“As a student of history, I have read and studied that Ile-Ife kingdom, as the cradle of human race, and the kingdom, occupies a high position in the global history. I have come to return His Imperial Majesty’s visit to the Republic of Ghana two years ago, especially to encourage him in his efforts of unifying the African continent. I am impressed, and I appreciate everything done in my honour.”

Penpushing also recalled that Mahama had once hosted the Ooni and his entourage while the he was on a five-day working visit to Ghana in 2016.