ALAÁFIN’S PALACE DENIES REPORT OF HUMILIATION AT IGBINEDION’S 91ST BIRTHDAY, CALLS IT ‘MALICIOUS’
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By: Sefiu Ajape
The Alaáfin of Oyo’s Palace has dismissed reports that His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, was ridiculed during the 91st birthday thanksgiving of the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Palace described the reports as “malicious and unfounded,” insisting that the Paramount Ruler of Yorubaland was accorded full honour throughout the celebration in Benin.
Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaáfin, said Chief Igbinedion personally invited the Alaáfin as the Royal Father of the occasion, continuing a tradition of cordial ties between both families.
“At the event, Oba Owoade and his entourage received a civic reception from the airport, were driven in limousines, and the Alaáfin was given the celebrant’s special personal chair while Chief Igbinedion sat on a lower chair,” Durojaiye stated.
He explained that during the church thanksgiving, the Esama, due to age, had to plead through one of his children for Kabiyesi to shift slightly so that he and his wife could sit.
“How logical and sensible is it for anyone to think that a celebrant of long years of robust relationship would plot evil against his revered guest?” he asked.
The Palace said the Alaáfin was celebrated by the people of Benin, with residents lining the streets to welcome him and guests at the ceremony rising in respect as he arrived.
Durojaiye warned those spreading falsehoods, declaring: “Those perpetuating evil manipulations against the Alaáfin should know that they are murdering peace and shall know no peace in their lifetimes.”
He urged the public to disregard the “tendentious report,” adding that it was an “untrue and calculated attempt to ridicule the Superior Head of Yorubaland and his revered institution out of envy and persecution.”
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