PMParrot/Parrot Xtra’s correspondent, EMMANUEL ADENIRAN recently had an encounter with the monarch of Omuo Kingdom in Ekiti, Oba Adejuwon Omonigbehin. He aired his view on the cultural practices in his kingdom and the likely solution to insecurity in Nigeria among many salient issues… Excerpts:
Can our readers meet you?
I am Oba Adejuwon Omonigbehin, Okinbaloye II, the Olomuo of Omuo kingdom. I belong to the Apoge Ruling House, a royal family in Omuo Kingdom. I was installed as the Monarch of Omuo kingdom on December 31 1991. I celebrated my 30th year’s coronation anniversary recently.
Can you relate to our readers your contributions and challenges since your ascension onto the throne?
Well, the journey has been a mixture of ups and down, with lots of challenges and God has enabled us to overcome them all. I want to say with all modesty that Omuo has developed physically, spiritually and economically.
Furthermore, some of our sons and daughters have attained higher positions in the civil service and in politics; the economic development of the town has increased compared to what it was and how it was before now. We have witnessed many developments ranging from increase in the educational establishments and health care services in the community among other numerous things to mention.
Can you talk to us about the taboos in Omuo Kingdom?
It is a taboo to knock when you are coming to the palace. Instead of knocking, you can clap your hand three times and you will receive a response. Apart from that, the taboos include putting up an umbrella, whistling, fighting, smoking, putting on a veil on your neck as a woman, coming to the palace with a walking stick among others.
Furthermore, the community has its own taboos too. In the market, women are expected to cover their heads they are not permitted to leave their head uncovered. In addition, people are not expected to bring in bunch of palm fruits into the community, and it is forbidden to fight in the market and assault a chief in the public.
What are the cultural activities commonly celebrated among the people of the community?
We usually celebrate different cultural and traditional festivals in the palace – there is an annual festival that is usually celebrated in January where we display our ancient and cultural values.
In addition, we celebrate the new yam, masquerade festival, also known as Egba festival. All other festivals are peculiar to some quarters. Presently, we have about fourteen (14) quarters and some of them have been given autonomy.
What are the memorable things you will want the people to remember you for?
In my 30years of reign as a monarch, I have enjoyed the Grace of God and anytime I am awake, one interesting thing that always comes to mind is the newly built palace, it is a legacy for posterity. With this consciousness, they will always refer to it that it was built during my reign.
What is your view about the economic and security situation in Nigeria?
It is a pity that we are witnessing the height of insecurity in Nigeria, without adequate security, people might not progress. The issue of security should not be left for the security agencies alone, it is everybody’s business and that is the reason we are clamoring for community police and the need to decentralize the command from Abuja to states and local governments. This is what is obtainable in civilized countries like Britain and US.
I will further recommend that the National Youths Service Corp (NYSC) member should be mandated to observe full military training and serve the country for two years just as it is done in Israel as a panacea to the security challenges in Nigeria and for self-defence.
What is your position on the agitation that the Ekiti governorship election should be zoned to the south senatorial district?
What is good for the gander is also good for the geese. It is Ekiti state project and we have all our inputs and stakes in the project, if others have been enjoying that post, I see no reason why the southern senatorial district cannot enjoy the same thing.
What is your final admonition sir?
I desire and pray that God will bless all Omuo sons and daughters in their daily endeavors. None among them will be lost and missing and the peace of God will always overshadow and protect them from all harms.
