Ooni of Ife renames American who retraced origin to Ile-Ife
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has played host to some Americans who traced their origin to in Ile-Ife after DNA test on Tuesday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the U.S. citizens were led to the traditional ruler by the Asoju Asa of Ile Oodua, Ambassador Dotun Taylor.
Reacting, the Ooni expressed excitement his over the arrival of the Americans.
“If you take a closer look at yourselves in comparison to your kinsmen and women here, there is no difference between us.
“The only difference is that my own forefathers missed the boat that yours caught up with”, he stated.
The Ojaja II then prayed that the “meaningful names” they were bestowed would manifest in all their endeavours.
He also described Ile-Ife in Osun State as a place filled with lovely people, adding that it’s a very safe environment.
The Ooni called on the Americans to increase their economic presence in town and exploit the various opportunities for investment.
Taylor said they were convinced of their origin after DNA tests and commended the Yoruba leader for his signicant roles in promoting the culture and preserving Yoruba history.
“I am feeling the connection of origination and I am happy to be back home”, said Mrs Delzora Dotson, who now has a middle name, Omotilewa.