In preparation of the International Conference on Ile-Ife and to gather materials for documentation of Yoruba Civilization and History, the Ooni of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi hosted the news men at his palace in Ile-Ife.
The press briefing held on Friday aimed at heralding the 4-day conference, was attended by a renowned Professor of History, Siyan Oyeweso who doubles as the team lead of the project.
Speaking on the need to document Yoruba history as the origin of mankind, Oba Ogunwusi stated that there are so many facts not written down about the tradition and civilization of Yoruba, adding that his interaction with international communities has shown that Ife is where several people migrated from.
“At the heart of this narrative is the quest to preserve and document the rich heritage of the Yoruba people, who were originally known as the “Kaaro o jire” race before adopting their more familiar nickname of Yoruba. What was once regarded as an academic consensus is now being reshaped by the tireless efforts of scholars, led by the esteemed Professor Siyan Oyeweso, a passionate historian.”
“Before ascending the throne I participated in conferences in Ethiopia, where I encountered a remarkable race known as the “Oromas” people. These proud descendants of Oromiyan, one of his ancestors in Ife, have preserved their heritage meticulously. They trace their lineage back to Ife and recount how Oranmiyan defended Ethiopia from afro-Asian invaders, allowing it to remain uncolonized, making it the only African country to achieve this distinction.
“During my second year as Ooni, I embarked on a journey to Ghana and discovered a mysterious group known as the “Ghamase” people who claimed to be affiliated with the Ife community. However, their presence and history were conspicuously absent from written records. My curiosity led me on a quest to trace their family roots within Ife, unearthing an untold chapter in the town’s history”
“The legacy of the “Kaaro o jire” and its profound connections to races far and wide are being meticulously documented for future generations” the Arole Oodua said.
Prof. Oyeweso while giving breakdown of the event said the conference would identify and address several issues and subjects and bridge the existing gap in the history.
“The institution of the Ooni, the central figure in Yoruba traditional governance, will also be examined. Questions surrounding the direct heirs of Oduduwa, the role of Oranmiyan, and the worship of over 400 deities in Ile-Ife will be critically explored. Participants from diverse disciplines and backgrounds will delve into the cultural importance of these deities and their relevance in modern times.”
“Ile-Ife has seen a resurgence in cultural significance since the 20th century, thanks to charismatic royal leaders like Ooni Olubuse I, Ooni Adekola, Ooni Ajagun Ademiluyi, Ooni Adesoji Aderemi, and Ooni Sijuade Olubuse II. The reign of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, since 2015, has further solidified Ile-Ife’s importance in Yoruba history and Modern Nigeria. Ooni Ojaja II has been instrumental in promoting global tourism, expanding the city, and building world-standard resorts.”
“English is the official language of the conference, presentations can be made in Yoruba, English, French, Portuguese, or Spanish. The event promises to be a comprehensive exploration of Ile-Ife’s significance in the Yoruba civilization, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. This conference is expected to draw widespread interest and attention, attracting scholars, historians, and enthusiasts from around the world eager to delve into the rich history of Ile-Ife and the Yoruba people.”
