By Alaafin defends choice of Gani Adams as Aare Ona Kankafo, reveals he was chosen on merit
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi has defended his choice of Otunba Gani Adams as the new Aare Ona Kankaro of Yoruba land saying he was chosen on merit ahead of other names which prompted up in the process of the selection.
The Alaafin had on Sunday announced the Oodua Peoples Congress National Coordinator as the new Yoruba Generalissimo which has made many raise questions.
The respected Yoruba monarch’s palace has now responded to reactions making the rounds as regards the choice of Adams who will be the next Aare after MKO Abiola who died 19 years ago.
“The choice of Adams was well thought out before a decision was taken. You may not place him beside Abiola in terms of wealth and other great achievements of the former Are Ona Kakanfos among the Yoruba people and beyond, but Adams has shown enough charisma to deserve the honour,” the Alaafin said.
He spoke further… “If you have been observing him in the past many years, Adams attends all Yoruba festivals, irrespective of where they are held. He also promotes our culture through so many means including his annual Olokun festival.
“I picked him because he loves the Yoruba race and all the culture and tradition of our people. He has contributed immensely to upholding them. Whenever he attends these festivals, he goes with a large entourage and financially, he is always responsible for the cost. He does not attend in order to benefit financially.
“He may be young but he is also very bold and courageous. These are traits synonymous with an Are Ona Kakanfo. Adams is a Yoruba cultural enthusiast. He defends the race anywhere he goes. Among his strengths is that he has strong supporters in every town in Yorubaland through his Oodua Peoples Congress.”
Oba Adeyemi however denied receiving any form of payment from Gani Adams to influence the selection.
“Money or material wealth is not considered before choosing an Are Ona Kakanfo. Abiola promoted everything that had to do with Yoruba race. He was popular among his people and he was close to traditional rulers. So, Adams may not be as rich as Abiola but I can tell you he has all the qualities an Aare Ona Kakanfo should possess. He leads an organisation that is ever ready to defend the cause of the Yoruba race. Is there any Yorubaman that has such clout as Adams without being a politician today?”
