Aare Onakakanfo, Gani Adams, has promised to use his office to bring about unity in Yorubaland and build bridges across Nigeria. He also vowed to protect the territories in South-West against external aggression.
This came as the ancient town of Oyo stood still for the better part of yesterday as the 15th Generalissimo of Yorubaland was installed by the paramount ruler of Oyo, the Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi.
The installation of Adams came 20 years after the death of Chief MKO Abiola, the last holder of the title.
The event attracted dignitaries, who thronged the Durbar Stadium, Oyo, the venue of the programme.
Traditional rulers, arrayed in their royal regalia, and traditional drummers added colour to the occasion
The installation of the Aare was preceded by his retreat from Wednesday during which traditional rites including 201 incisions were said to have been performed on him ahead of the installation.
Eminent Yoruba people as well as the common people began to troop to the ancient town for the occasion as early as 8am yesterday. Security operatives had a hectic time controlling the crowd who came from across the six Yoruba states and beyond to witness the colourful ceremony.
Meanwhile, petty thieves caught stealing telephones, jewelries and cash were beaten mercilessly by security operatives before they were whisked away.
