By Gbenga Olarinoye, Osogbo

Former president Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday appealed to the kingmakers of Ile- Ife to follow strictly the laid down rules and procedures for the selection of the new Ooni following the demise of Oba Okunade Sijuwade. He also asked the kingmakers to allow God’s wisdom to prevail on them to choose a rightful and God fearing person who would replace the late Ooni.

ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo 

Chief Obasanjo made the appeal when he visited the kingmakers at the Ooni’s palace to commiserate with the people of Ife over the death of Oba Sijuwade.

Specifically, Chief Obasanjo asked the kingmakers to be careful of the choice of successor,  saying that late Sijuwade dignified the stool beyond Africa.

According to him, the position of Ife in Nigeria can not be wished away, adding that the town is of great significance to the Yoruba race.

The former president recalled that late Oba Sijuwade 10 days before his death in his palace told him about the marginalisation of the Yoruba race.

“I was here  ten days before the demise of Kabiyesi and he told me how the Yoruba race is being margnalised in the country. He also told me to ensure that the Yoruba race got its share of things in the country,” he said.

The Obalufe of Ife, Gabriel Omisakin, who received Obasanjo on behalf of other chiefs assured the former President that the choice of a new king would not generate controversy.

He promised that the kingmakers would ensure that due process  is followed so as to have an acceptable person as king.

He appealed to Obasanjo not to be  far from the community considering his position in Yoruba land.