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The coronation of the new Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, on Monday, was an event attended by many from across the world – traditional leaders, politicians, businessmen and academics.
While the presence of many of them were noticed and recognised at the event, the absence of some where too conspicuous to be ignored. Two of such leaders were the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi and a notable son of Ile-Ife, Senator Iyiola Omisore.
They were both absent at an event many expected them to hold high stakes in – Alaafin, being a first class monarch as the Ooni, and Omisore, being a prominent political leader from Ile Ife.
It was however not clear if they sent representation or word across to the organisers, explaining why they would not be able to attend.
Over 300 traditional rulers from Osun, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Lagos, Kwara, Edo, Delta and Sokoto states attended the historic ceremony.
Politicians and political leaders as well as top businessmen were also in attendance as Oba Ogunwusi received his staff of office as the 51st Ooni of Ife.
Oba Ogunwusi received his staff of office as the 51st Ooni of Ife on Monday. He has promised to use his position to transform the ancient town, economically and socially.