The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has reaffirmed the Yoruba identity of the Itsekiri people, describing them as direct descendants of Oduduwa
The monarch made the statement over the weekend during a historic visit by a delegation of Warri chiefs and Itsekiri leaders to his palace in the ancient city of Oyo. The team, led by the Iyasere of Warri Kingdom, Chief Johnson Amatsereuleghe, visited to congratulate Oba Owoade on his ascension to one of Yorubaland’s most respected thrones.
Delivering a message from the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Iyasere described the visit as a step toward strengthening the bond between the Itsekiri and the Yoruba.
“This is a historic reunion and a deliberate effort to reinforce the bridge of solidarity between the Itsekiri and Yoruba people. There is no ambiguity about our Yoruba origin. It is evident in our language, culture, and oral traditions passed down through generations,” Amatsereuleghe said.
He emphasized that despite being based in Delta State, the Itsekiri share deep ancestral, cultural, and linguistic roots with the Yoruba and have faced marginalisation that needs to be addressed.
“The Alaafin has emerged at a pivotal moment. The people are looking to him to unite all children of Oduduwa and help heal historical wounds,” he added.
In his remarks, Oba Owoade warmly welcomed the delegation and affirmed the shared heritage between the Yoruba and Itsekiri.
“We are bound by blood. What affects you affects the entire Yoruba people. We share the same ancestry, history, and aspirations. The time has come for unity and collaboration,” the Alaafin said.
He also recalled gaining first-hand exposure to Itsekiri culture during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posting in Warri. “That experience deepened my understanding of our shared heritage,” he noted.
The monarch pledged to work towards uniting all Yoruba-descended people across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Among the visiting delegation were prominent figures such as Chief Robinson Ariyo (Egogo of Warri Kingdom), Chief Roland Oritsejafor (Ogwa of Warri), Chief Omotolubi Newuwumi (Omotamudieyi of Warri), and Prince Benson Onuwaje, CEO of Emirate Logistics.
Also present were Emmanuel Nunu (Secretary, Warri South LGA), Kingsley Tenumah Afere (Chairman, Warri Indigenous Peoples Movement), Godwin Abigor (former Delta State Director of Protocol), Appearance Afejuku (former Warri North Councillor), and community leader Dere Jarekpe.
The visit is seen as a significant step in bridging long-standing cultural and political divides between kindred ethnic groups in Nigeria.
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