Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has reconciled with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, after publicly tendering an apology at the monarch’s palace in Ile-Ife on Saturday.
The meeting, witnessed by several Yoruba traditional rulers, chiefs, and supporters, marked a significant step toward repairing strained relations between the activist and the revered monarch.
During the visit, Igboho prostrated before the Ooni and expressed regret over past remarks he made against him.
“I thank God for my life and for this moment. I never imagined Kabiyesi would receive me in this way. I offended him, and I am here to apologise,” Igboho said.
“Whoever I have offended should also forgive me. A man may speak against a king in his absence, but no one insults a monarch face-to-face. Kabiyesi, please forgive me.”
The activist disclosed that while in detention in the Benin Republic, he became aware of the Ooni’s discreet efforts to secure his release despite his earlier criticisms. He further appealed for the monarch’s intervention in addressing his security challenges.
“My concern is the safety of our people. They are being killed, and I want to use my strength to defend them. But I need your support to achieve this,” he said, also seeking help in removing his name from security watchlists and unfreezing his bank accounts.
In support of the reconciliation, the Attah of Ayede-Ekiti, Oba Abdulmumini Orisagbemi, and the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Olabomi, praised Igboho’s humility and assured him of the forgiveness of Yoruba traditional rulers.
The Ooni, in his response, embraced Igboho and described him as “a brilliant and courageous son of Yorubaland” whose struggles were born out of genuine concern for his people.
“Patience and humility always prevail. Many insulted me when situations became tough, but I remained calm. I even held private discussions with former President Muhammadu Buhari concerning your case. I thank God for your life today,” the monarch said.
Reaffirming his support, Oba Ogunwusi added: “You are my son, and I hold no grudge against you. Some advised me not to receive you, but I told them you are fighting for our people. All matters will be resolved. We must put aside division and unite as one Yoruba family.”
The reconciliation is seen as a potential turning point for Igboho, who has long remained a polarising figure in the Yoruba self-determination movement.
