US-based Nigerian joins race for Ooni stool

One of the top contenders for the vacant stool of Ooni of Ife, Prince Adetayo Oladele, has said the next Ooni must be a man of integrity, ‘who sees the throne in terms of responsibility and service rather than power, privilege and prestige.’

Prince Oladele, who hails from Adagba royal compound in the Lafogido ruling house, gave the clarification in a statement yesterday
, pointing out that the throne became vacant at a time Ile-Ife needs an Ooni that is able to reposition the town for the pride of not only Ife sons and daughters but all Yoruba across the world.

The immediate past Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse 11, joined his ancestors on July 28, 2015.
Speaking on his desire to occupy the vacant stool, the United States-based real estate expert said:  “Ile-Ife is a uniquely great town. It is not only symbolic in Yorubaland but in the whole world for its historical importance.

Our town has also been blessed with great kings in the past. But at this critical time in our history, Ile-Ife deserves only an Ooni that is truly dissatisfied with the town’s current state and has genuine interest in harnessing all its potentials to move it to its rightful place economically, traditionally and socially.”