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October 4, 2022

Lagos chief, Kunnuji, identifies cultural heritage promotion as Nigeria’s key unity factor

Lagos chief, Kunnuji, identifies cultural heritage promotion as Nigeria’s key unity factor

A traditional chief, the Gagbo Menon toyon of Ajido kingdom in Badagry axis of Lagos, Chief Michael Kunnuji, has charged the Federal Government to explore the huge cultural heritage of ethnic groups to promote unity among Nigerians.

Kunnuji said that the historical and cultural heritage of the numerous ethnic groups were strong enough to foster unity among the diversified culture across the country.

He made the appeal while celebrating the first coronation anniversary of his traditional title in Lagos which was attended by dignitaries from different sectors.

While lamenting that the culturally rich heritage of the people of Nigeria is being killed on daily basis as a result of new religions introduced by the colonial masters, the Gagbo Menu toyon of Ajido called on the government to take the lead in reawakening cultural consciousness.

He said: “I was in Brazil three years ago and what I saw marveled me; I saw Brazilians engage in Osun worship, Ogun, and Ifa worship.

“I can’t believe that what we have rejected as evil in Yoruba land has been embraced elsewhere and they are putting on our outfits and dancing the way we do, white men and women.

“If these people can see the good in our heritage, why can’t we retrace our steps and go back to the good in them? the traditional chief added.

The Gagbo Menu Toyon of Ajido Kingdom, who marked his coronation anniversary in Nigeria and Benin Republic, emphasised that he was moved by the way European countries embraced African heritage.

At Cotonou, the capital city of Benin Republic, Kunnuji was welcomed by Mr. Isidore Gnonlonfoun, a Minister in the Republic of Benin, who is also a member of the country’s parliament.

Gnonlonfoun organised a short prayer for Senayon Kunnuji, whom he described as a brother and lover of the country.

A mammoth crowd gathered to welcome Kunnuji at the Wasoagbe area of Cotonou, where the descendants of Gagbo live.

There was a colourful cultural display as traditional Zangbeto and other masquerades danced with traditional dancers and drummers to entertain and welcome Chief Kunnuji back home after many years abroad.

Chief Kunnuji was led by elders of Gagbo to four different powerful shrines of their descendants in Cotonou.

Speaking to journalists shortly after observing different rites at Gagbo compound in Cotonou, Kunnuji said his descendants originated from Gagbo in the Republic of Benin.

He said: “My forefathers originated from Benin Republic. During the war, they migrated through the Atlantic Ocean all the way to Ajido community in Badagry, Lagos.

“When they got to Ajido, they stopped, crossed the Atlantic Ocean, and decided to stay there. So, according to history, my great grand father was the first Baale of Ajido Kingdom.

“So Gagbo family came from here. In Benin Republic, we have Gagbo and Zanga families and I belong to both side. Gagbo is my father’s side while Zanga is my mother’s side. So, I am traditionally qualified to be Zanga or Gagbo.” 

Kunnuji disclosed that he had to observe all the traditional rites at the shrines as they are normally done.

He later moved with his entourage to Zanga area of Cotonou to greet his family on his mother’s side, where he was received by his kinsmen with merriness and fun.

Chief Kunnuji was welcomed back to Ajido kingdom by the youths with fanfare, where he also visited all Gagbo shrines.

The event was rounded off with pomp and celebration as guests were entertained.