The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Monday emphasised African unity as he conferred the chieftaincy title of Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source on Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, declaring that Africans remain “one people, one family” despite colonial-era borders.
The ceremony took place at Afewonro Park within the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife and drew an array of traditional rulers, political leaders, and cultural figures from Yorubaland and Ghana, underscoring Ile-Ife’s status as the spiritual cradle of the Yoruba people.
Receiving President Mahama with full traditional honours, the Ooni—who is also the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council—described the Ghanaian leader as a symbol of cultural continuity, economic reform, and Pan-African solidarity.
“This palace is familiar to you. You have been part of our journey and have grown with us,” Oba Ogunwusi said, noting Mahama’s longstanding relationship with Ile-Ife even before his return to office as Ghana’s president.
The monarch stressed that artificial boundaries created during colonial rule should not undermine Africa’s shared heritage, citing linguistic and cultural similarities between the Yoruba people and communities in Ghana.
“In Ghana, you say ‘Akwaabo,’ and here we say ‘Ekaabo.’ Are they not the same? We are one people, one family,” the Ooni declared.
Oba Ogunwusi also recalled that during a previous visit to the palace after Mahama left office, prayers were offered with a prophetic declaration that he would return to leadership, a prediction he said has now been fulfilled.
“To the glory of God, you are now a true reformer. Upon assuming office for a second term, Ghana’s economy witnessed a remarkable turnaround. We are immensely proud of your leadership,” he said, praising Mahama’s economic record and expressing confidence in his broader influence within the African Union.
In his acceptance speech, President Mahama expressed gratitude to the Ooni and the people of Ile-Ife, highlighting the deep ancestral links between Ghana and Nigeria.
“The people of Accra trace their lineage to Ile-Ife. We are one family,” Mahama said, dedicating the chieftaincy title to all Ghanaians.
He further pledged to use the honour to strengthen bilateral relations and promote unity across West Africa.
“As long as I serve as President of Ghana, I will work to deepen ties between our nations and bridge divides within ECOWAS,” he assured.