The father of Ooni, Prince Aderopo Ogunwusi, has said that he will prostrate for his son if occasion demands.
He spoke against the backdrop of the taboo that forbids father to prostrate for his son in Yorubland.
In an interview with Sunday Sun, the retired On-Air-Personality of the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC) said: ‘There is no cause for alarm. Even though the Yoruba culture forbids that father should prostrate for his son, the position of an Ooni is a powerful one that he must be adored, respected by all and sundry’’.
Asked whether he would prostrate for his son, he said: ‘’Why not? It is a must and let me tell you that when occasions arise that I should do so, I will gladly do so the way other young and old will prostrate for him. It is his office and tradition that we are respecting and we will continue to do so’’
Pa Ogunwusi, who expressed delight that the new Ooni understands the rich culture of the Ife people said: ‘’I am happy that he understands the rich culture of Ife people even before his election. I think destiny too has prepared him for this assignment even long before his birth.
He added: “As it has been reported, he exhibited greatness since birth and followed it up till the moment providence bestows on him the responsibility of occupying the royal seat of his forebears. May God be with him. We thank God for this. it is an honour to the Ogunwusi family, the Giesi Royal House and the entire people of Ile-Ife, particularly the youths. Yes, he may be young, but his wisdom is more than his age. May God bless him more with the wisdom of Solomon to pilot the affairs of this our ancient town’’While praying for a peaceful and long reign, the elder Ogunsanwo advised his son to see his new position as a call to serve the people of Ife in particular and the mankind in general.
