In a symbolic show of unity and cultural significance, the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife met in Lagos on Friday during a public hearing on the amendment of the 1999 Constitution, aimed at strengthening the role of traditional institutions in Nigeria.
The historic gathering took place at the South-West zonal public hearing venue where stakeholders, royal fathers, lawmakers, and civil society groups gathered to deliberate on proposed constitutional reforms.
Both monarchs, revered for their cultural influence and ancestral heritage, expressed strong support for the inclusion of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s governance structure, citing their pivotal role in grassroots peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and community development.
The Alaafin and the Ooni emphasized that the marginalization of traditional rulers in the country’s constitution undermines their potential to contribute meaningfully to national unity and security. They jointly advocated for formal constitutional recognition that would grant them advisory and mediatory powers, especially in matters of local governance and community safety.
Their appearance at the hearing drew significant attention from attendees and observers, with many describing it as a powerful statement of Yoruba unity and a call for the restoration of institutional dignity to Nigeria’s royal fathers.
The hearing was part of the ongoing efforts by the National Assembly to review the 1999 Constitution, with specific focus on restructuring, devolution of powers, and elevating the roles of traditional institutions across the federation.
