In a significant moment of cultural diplomacy and mutual respect, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the Alaafin of Yoruba Land, paid a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s former president, Chief Olusegun Mathew Okikiola Aremu Obasanjo, in his hometown of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The visit, which took place yesterday, was a symbol of royal solidarity and reverence, as the Alaafin acknowledged the statesmanship and historical legacy of Chief Obasanjo — a revered figure in Nigerian politics and traditional society. Known as the Balogun of Owu and fondly referred to as the Ẹbọra Òwu, Obasanjo received the monarch warmly at his private residence.
The royal engagement underscores the growing relationship between traditional institutions and national figures, both of whom play pivotal roles in shaping the country’s cultural and political narratives.
Oba Owoade I, known for his advocacy of Yoruba unity and cultural heritage, described the meeting as “a visit to an elder, a leader of men, and a father of the Yoruba nation.” The monarch added that preserving the connection between royalty and elder statesmen like Obasanjo is crucial to maintaining societal values and the continuity of Yoruba tradition.
Photos from the visit, which have since gone viral on social media with hashtags like #Alaafin, #AgbaOba, and #AlaafinOfYorubaLand, show both leaders in high spirits, symbolizing unity across the traditional and political spheres.