Saki Kingdom Honours Non-Indigenes . . . Monarch Cites ‘Omoluabi’ Custom
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by Our Correspondent
The ancient city of Saki was agog recently when an uncommon event occurred in the kingdom, where some non indigenes were given honourary traditional chieftaincy titles.
The Okere of Sakiland, His Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, conferred the titles in conformity with the Yoruba ‘omoluabi’ custom to deserving persons as an acknowledgement and appreciation of their good deeds and gestures to the people of Saki and the Yoruba race.
Beneficiaries of the traditional chieftaincy titles were the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, General Tukur Buratai (Rtd) who was the former Army Chief of Staff who was honoured with the title of Jagunmolu of Saki Kingdom, and Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun, honoured with the title of Akinrogun of Saki Kingdom.
Reacting to some misconstrued understanding of the custom and tradition on traditional chieftaincy titles, especially that of Jagunmolu of Saki Kingdom conferred on the Kanuri-born General Buratai, the Saki monarch said: “Setting the records straight, it must be frankly stated that the reservations expressed is borne out of ignorance of historical facts, and a lack of understanding of the ‘omoluabi’ culture of the Yoruba.
“Historically, there is a strong affinity between the Kanuri people of the North East and Yoruba of the South West right from pre-colonial era to date, which necessitated strong ties of family, career and business between people of the two nations. While some refer to oral tradition which has it that Yoruba and Kanuri were cousins, others point to the similarity of culture.”
Also contributing, the Okere of Saki the Paramount Ruler of Oke Ogun whose territory spread beyond the geographic boundary of Nigeria to some town and villages within Benin Republic where Ambassador Burantai is representing Nigeria as head of mission with many of his subject spread across west African sub region said: “This is normal when a reason to an action is not sought before a reaction is given.
“The acclaimed stranger to the land was not, by status, bestowed the title but rather on the ground of actualizing dreams that were long time hanging in the mind of Saki dwellers. Saki had, for long, been yearning the face of Federal Government on different projects yet it seemed the mouths praying are not enough until the mouth of Col. Gbenga Adegbola opened widely to solicit the help of Lt. General Tukir Yusuf Buratai on projects.
“This effort brought about the establishment of Command Science Secondary School in Saki Land which is no doubt one of its kind in the whole of Oyo State.
“Likewise, on the same effect was the initiation of special water system for Saki people at Saki city hall and within the palace of Okere of Saki Land, which is undoubtedly a long dream actualised through the influence of these personalities in question.
“Should we say we are ungrateful for these course or the projects are not worth the hands of appreciation?
“However, what is undeniably factual is the bond occasioned by business, career and marriage ties. Most especially politics, the late sage chief Obafemi Awolowo strong political ties with North East that gave the UPN upper hand in 1979 election which later transform to AD era of Mala Kachalla and now APC Asiwaju Tinubu, Senator Shettima and Executive governor Babagana Zulum.
“For instance, Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, a Kanuri-born diplomat and politician is married to a Yoruba woman, and has ties with many Yoruba illustrious sons via his career in public service and politics. Just as Ambassador Buratai’s military career has enabled ties with many from all walks of life, including many Yorubas and traditional rulers.
Further speaking, the monarch opined that: “This bond has engendered a mutually beneficial relationship that contributed to Saki’s development through personal efforts and sacrifices of General Buratai Rtd. It is in recognition of these contributions that the Okere Saki and his people decided to honour a man whose landmark projects are visible in Saki and beyond, in appreciation of his numerous contributions to the kingdom.
“Yoruba people have a culture of appreciating good deeds and gestures of people irrespective of race or colour, this is in tandem with the omoluabi trait in our people. The unity of this country should be of paramount concern to all, and one way of fostering our unity is to acknowledge, appreciate and celebrate our living heroes in spite of their nativity. For the Okere Saki and his people, General Buratai is a son in whom they are well pleased.
It will be noted that the landmark event is misunderstood in some quarters.
