Alaafin of Oyo urges religious leaders to promote peace, national unity
Alaafin of Oyo
The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has called on religious leaders across Nigeria to co-exist peacefully in the collective interest of national unity and development.
Oba Owoade made this appeal while attending the ongoing Annual Session of the Oyo West Baptist Conference, held at the under-construction Conference Hall in Elekara, Oyo town.
The monarch, accompanied by his Queen Consort, Ayaba Abiwunmi, was received with joy and excitement by thousands of delegates, including ministers of God and invited guests.
In a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Oba Owoade, who was the Guest of Honour at the event, emphasized the sacred role of peace in nation-building.
According to him: “Leaders of the three religions must resolve to live together and protect one another at all times in order to build a peaceful country. Their preachers should begin to preach and change the psyche of their members against violence. Peace is sacred and divine, as the three religions have similar teachings.
“The three religions must be seriously concerned about the future of this great country. This is because Nigeria is not only the pride of Africa, but also the leader of the continent with limitless potential.”
The monarch stressed that peace remained the only true recipe for sustainable development and urged Nigerians to embrace unity for national progress.
Oba Owoade, to the delight of over 30,000 delegates, began his address with the rendition of a popular Christian song, prompting thunderous ovation as the congregation joyfully joined in the singing. His humility also struck a chord with participants when, instead of speaking from his seat, he walked to the podium to deliver his remarks amid applause.
In his goodwill message, the Alaafin praised the Oyo West Baptist Conference for its support since his ascension to the throne, commending its Chairman, Reverend Dr. Olawale Babalola, whom he described as “a reliable son, honest, devoted, and an upright person whose divine calling has brought positive dividends to Oyo and its environs.”
The conference session further highlighted the close bond between the palace and the church community. Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade was officially inducted as Patron of the Baptist Women Missionary Union. The couple was also honored with presentations of local fabrics.
In her response, Ayaba Owoade thanked the women of the Conference for their commitment to womanhood and pledged the continuous support of the Alaafin to the Union.
The event vividly portrayed Oba Owoade as a beloved and respected monarch, admired for his humility, trustworthiness, and dedication to peace and progress in Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.
