Supo Ayokunle, former President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, to be courageous and always seek divine guidance on the throne, in order to surmount impending obstacles.
Ayokunle, a reverend while delivering a sermon at the Coronation Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday at the Anglican Cathedral Church, Esiele in Oyo Town, noted that courage and bravery are essential qualities of a good leader, adding that these two qualities are imperative to be demonstrated in the pursuit of justice, freedom, and other noble causes for peace, progress and development.
In his sermon entitled: “Reigning To Lead Oyo And Yoruba People To Prominenceâ€, Ayokunle who described Alaafin Owoade as “divinely ordained paramount rulerâ€, likened his journey to ascension of the throne to that of King David in The holy Bible.
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In a Press Statement released by Bode Durojaiye, the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Ayokunle said, “Kabiyesi, do not think that you are alone on the throne. Be courageous, steadfast and committed .The Almighty God is standing by you and ready to assist you in leading the people aright. Be afraid of no one , but your God at all times. Call on Him and He will not let you down. Your mission shall surely be accomplishedâ€.
At the programme which was organised by the Local Organising Committee for the Coronation of the new Alaafin of Oyo, the renowned clergyman pointed out that the primary assignment of the new Alaafin of Oyo is how to ensure that Oyo must get to the promised land.
He said the royal father must encounter obstacles but would not be insurmountable with courage, adherence to the words of God, and prayer.
Responding, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, left no congregation in doubt that he is indeed a man with a heart of Gold.
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“If our people feel cared for and valued for who they are, not merely what they do; we will have their hearts and their loyalty. This involves listening to our people and finding ways to serve them; all motivated by a desire to see them succeedâ€, he said.
For the new Alaafin, the emphasis is on principles rather than rules, saying, “This is because rules modify behaviour and principles change hearts, as anyone can adjust his or her lifestyle for a season or adhere to a structureâ€.
Oba Owoade pointed out that lives are truly changed through transformation rather than conformity, hence focusing on principles, teaches people wisdom which works in a multitude of situations.
