The Yoruba Youth Council Worldwide (YYCW) has hailed Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, elder statesman, and philanthropist and the Odole-Oodua for meddling in the crisis between Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, and Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade.
Alawode Rahmon, president of YYC in a statement made available to journalists, described Adebutu as “a bridge-builder, peace ambassador, and shining light of the Yoruba race whose words continue to inspire generational harmony and national cohesion.
The Council particularly hailed the ‘Message of Unity’ delivered by Adebutu during his 90th Birthday Breakfast Meeting held on October 24, 2025, where he hosted the two monarchs.
In his heartfelt message, Adebutu called for renewed brotherhood and mutual respect between Ile-Ife and Oyo — the two ancestral pillars of Yoruba civilization — stressing that their harmony signified not only the unity of the Yoruba people but also the strength of Nigeria and the Black race.
Quoting the YYC President: “Baba Adebutu’s timeless wisdom reminds us that the unity between our royal thrones in Ile-Ife and Oyo is the soul of the Yoruba nation. His message is a clarion call to all Yoruba sons and daughters, especially the youth, to rise above division and work together for progress, dignity, and peace.”
The council also applauded Adebutu’s decades of philanthropy, empowerment initiatives, and support for education, describing him as a rare statesman whose legacy transcends generations.
“We celebrate a true son of Oduduwa whose life continues to sow the seed of unity, prosperity, and pride among Yoruba descendants globally. Baba’s 90th birthday is not just a celebration of age but of impact, integrity, and enduring relevance,” the group said.
As Adebutu clocks 90, the YYC prayed for his continued good health, divine grace, and wisdom, urging Yoruba traditional institutions and leaders to sustain the peace dialogue he championed for the greater good of the race.
The council joined eminent Nigerians and traditional institutions in celebrating the 90th birthday anniversary of Source, commending his lifelong contributions to humanity, cultural preservation, and unity across Yorubaland.
“May the two crowns of Oduduwa shine together in harmony. May Yoruba land remain united, and may the legacy of Sir Kesington Adebutu live forever,” the statement added.
