The Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, has expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity in Osun State, describing the recent wave of violence as alarming.
Baxter made these remarks on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
His visit was documented in a statement released by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, and made available to The PUNCH on Thursday.
While addressing the Ooni and other dignitaries present, Baxter condemned the politically motivated destruction of lives and properties, stressing that such acts undermine the peace for which Osun State has been known for over a decade.
“I have known Osun State to be a peaceful place for the past 15 years. Seeing and hearing about the destruction of lives and properties for political reasons is deeply condemnable,” he stated.
He further urged the Ooni to take proactive steps in restoring stability in the state.
Baxter also reflected on the longstanding relationship between Britain and Ile-Ife, likening the House of Oduduwa to Buckingham Palace.
“The first Governor of Western Nigeria, Ooni Adesoji Aderemi, built a very strong institutional relationship with Buckingham Palace in London.
“This relationship was strengthened by your predecessor, Ooni Okunade Sijuwade. Please, do not let the bond break during your reign as the present Ooni of Ife and the overall king of the Yoruba race,” he appealed.
In his response, Ooni Ogunwusi, speaking on behalf of the Osun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, decried the political violence and urged an end to the bloodshed.
He called on politicians to prioritize the state’s welfare above personal ambitions.
“The destruction of lives and properties for political gains is unwarranted. Osun has been known for its peace and harmony over the years, as the British Deputy High Commissioner has noted.
“I, on behalf of the Osun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, call on all politicians in Osun State to sheath their swords and remember that no one is greater than the state,” Ooni Ogunwusi asserted.
As Co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, the Ooni extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
He reassured Baxter that traditional rulers in Osun were working tirelessly to restore calm and order.
The visit coincided with the reception of the newly installed Elerin of Erin-Ile in Kwara State, Oba Jimoh Adesoye.
Expressing gratitude for the Ooni’s support throughout his journey to the throne, he acknowledged the warm reception given to him.
“I deeply appreciate the Ooni for granting us an audience on short notice despite his busy schedule. I also thank him for his unwavering support throughout my journey to the throne,” he said.
Ooni Ogunwusi, in turn, prayed for the new Elerin’s reign to be marked by prosperity and longevity, emphasizing the historic ties between Ile-Ife and Erin-Ile.
The event was graced by several prominent dignitaries, including the Obalufe of Ife, key high chiefs, the Olojoku of Ojoku in Kwara State, Oba Abdulrasak Adegboyega Afolabi, the Elerin of Erin-Osun in Osun State, Oba Yusuf Oyagbodun, Olori Sherifat Adesoye, Olori of the Elerin of Erin-Ile, the mother of Olori Mariam Ogunwusi, Sooko Adegboyega Ogunwusi, and members of the Elerin’s council.
