By Richard Ayinde, Osogbo.
An advice has gone to governments to always demonstrate their unalloyed support to Yoruba traditional rulers as they promote the culture and tradition of their various domains.
The Obalokun of Osun State, Chief Teslim Raji, a.k.a. Akerele and his wife, gave this advice on Thursday in his congratulatory message to the Olukoyi of Ikoyi land, Oba Yisau Bantale Otunla, Kodaolu 1 on the celebration this year Osun-Ikoyi festival.
Akerele who wished the Olukoyi well as he continued to remember his fore fathers said, “government’s support towards the promotion of Yoruba culture and tradition by the traditional rulers cannot be over emphasised.”
He stated that government must see it as their role and responsibility to demonstrate their unflinching support to uplift the entire Yoruba race.
According to the Obalokun, “myself and entire family congratulate my father, the Olukoyi of Ikoyi land, Oba Yisau Bantale Otunla, Kodaolu 1 on this year’s celebration of Osun-Ikoyi festival, which has started since yesterday (Wednesday).
“I also felicitate with the Olukoyi in Council, the Chairman, Isokan South Local Council Development Area of the state, Prince Wasiu Oyetunji Oyelami, as well as the residents of Ikoyi land for witnessing this year’s celebration of Osun-Ikoyi festival.”
Akerele, however, urged residents of the ancient community to continue to celebrate the festival without crisis, adding, “let us all be law-abiding and always be in peace during and after the ongoing festival”.