Stop open support for political office seekers, Obasanjo tells Ooni, others

Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has warned traditional rulers in Yoruba land against an open endorsement of any political office seeker, saying their role should end in offering prayers for whoever visit them to discuss politics.

He also told Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, not to direct Yoruba people to support any aspirant for political position, because the race was not known for following a single political party.

Obasanjo spoke at the palace of Ooni in Ile-Ife, where he joined dignitaries that include, ex Oyo State governor, Rasidi Ladoja, to witness the installation of the Director General of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan, Dr Nterenya Sanginga and his wife, Charlotte Kurara, as Aare and Yeye Afurugbin Ola of the source.

The former President who told Ooni to be wary of those that never wanted him to be installed when he was seeking the throne, but now sought his support to gain political favour, said people of the Yoruba race would never follow a single political party.

Explaining that it was not out of place for Ooni to forgive some individuals for the roles they played during the struggle to fill the throne, Obasanjo, however said the monarch should be careful with political office seekers.

Referring to Ooni, Obasanjo further said, “I like your spirit. Those coming to meet you now, if God had permitted them, you would not be in this position and you know that. It is good to have forgiven spirit, but let us know what we are doing.”

Oba Ogunwusi, while praying for the IITA boss and his wife, said their new offices would further enhance the roles they have been playing in promoting agriculture. PUNCH