Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has described the passing on to glory of Oba Okunade Sijuade, the Ooni of Ife, as the end of an era in Yorubaland.
Saraki in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu said he was particularly saddened by the fact that the Ooni departed at a time when the country is in dire need of his wise counsel, respected interventions and patriotic stand on issues of national significance.
While describing the transition of Oba Sijuwade as a “national loss”, the Senate President commiserated with members of the Olubuse royal family, people of Ile Ife, Government and people of Osun State and the entire Yorubaland over the demise of a “king who represents the best of Yoruba traditions and customs”.
He described the late Ooni as a royal father who will remain dear to his heart for a long time due to his deliberate efforts to promote Yoruba culture and tradition.
He noted that as a way of promoting national unity, the Ooni gave chieftaincy titles to many Nigerians from other parts of the country.
“On behalf of my family and the National Assembly, I convey my most heartfelt and sincere condolences to the royal family, people and Government of Osun State, the entire Yoruba race and Nigerians as a whole on the departure of the foremost traditional ruler, the Arole Oodua”, Saraki stated.
