By The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has emphasized the critical importance of fostering peace and harmony within communities in today’s interconnected global landscape. The monarch stressed that as diverse cultures, beliefs, and values coexist, proactive and effective peace-building initiatives are essential for maintaining strong social bonds and preventing conflicts from escalating.
Oba Owoade’s statement comes in response to ongoing land disputes that have strained relations between communities. Specifically, he addressed appeals from concerned indigenes of Oyo, urging the royal father to intervene in the lingering disagreements over land ownership between the Oyo and Afijio communities. The monarch believes that his role as a traditional leader can help bridge the divides and foster reconciliation.
According to Bode Durojaiye, the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, the monarch views peace-building as more than simply resolving conflicts after they arise. Instead, he advocates for a comprehensive approach that delves into the fundamental causes of discord and actively cultivates a culture characterized by trust and collaboration among community members.
“It involves engaging individuals and groups at all levels to create sustainable peace through dialogue, education, and empowerment,” the Alaafin stated. He questioned the logic behind conflicts between closely linked communities within the same Oyo metropolis, asking, “Why must interwoven communities that had been in existence for decades and within the same metropolis, Oyo, be at daggers drawn with themselves over land matters, rather than working harmoniously for common goals?”
Oba Owoade issued a strong call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, declaring, “We must remember that a house divided against itself cannot stand, just as in unity lies the strength. United and harmonious we stand, but divided we fall. There must be a ceasefire, as enough is enough. We can’t continue to shed our blood and live in perpetual acrimony. There must be a lasting peace.”
To address the situation, the Alaafin disclosed his intention to convene meetings with key stakeholders and influential leaders within the affected communities. Following these discussions, he plans to initiate education and awareness programs designed to promote mutual understanding. Additionally, he aims to create safe and inclusive spaces where open dialogue and reconciliation can take place among the concerned communities, fostering a path towards lasting peace.
