Aare Ona Kankanfo of Yoruba-designate, Otunba Gani Adams, is to officially inform former Lagos governor and national leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, former president Olusegun Obasanjo and founder of the Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, about his new title.
Speaking in Lagos yesterday, Adams disclosed that attention will focus on him as the Aare Ona Kankanfo, adding the title will moderate his radicalism.
Saying that at 47, he is ripe and qualified to occupy any position in Nigeria, he noted that “I am going to meet Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Dr. Frederick Fasehun to inform them.”
He added: “When the Alaafin saw my curriculum vitae, especially the formation of the Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) in 78 countries, he resolved to consult widely before giving me the title. Aare is a position of service to Yoruba land. You can only attain the position as a freedom fighter and philanthropist.
He said he met the criteria, including loyalty to the royal father, focus on welfare of Yoruba land, defence of Yoruba cultural values and leadership of a socio-cultural group with about six million people.
Adams said he had consulted prominent Yoruba leaders.
Adding that the new title will moderate his radicalism, he described the Alaafin as a highly respected monarch and an intelligent leader, adding that he consulted with the traditional institution, political class and leaders of opinion in Yoruba land before giving him the title.
Meanwhile, congratulatory messages have continued to greet the appointment.
Former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu has felicitated with Adams on his designation as the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba.
In a message, Kalu said: “The news of your confirmation as Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land did not to come to me as a surprise, owing to your gallant qualities and exemplary leadership style. It is indeed a well-deserved honour.
“You have, over the years, demonstrated patriotism in your pursuits; as such, your contributions to the socio-political development of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria are remarkable.
“While urging you to use your position to promote peace and unity in Nigeria, I wish you a successful reign as the field marshal of Yoruba land.”
Also, OPC leader in Ekiti State, Prince Adeniyi Adedipe, has said Adams deserves the title.
He hailed Oba Adeyemi for considering Adams worthy of the prestigious title.
Adedipe described the recipient as a “round peg in a round hole”.
