The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has been invited to the coronation of Mujahid Dokubo-Asari as the Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari in Rivers State.
Dokubo-Asari extended the invitation during a visit to Ogunwusi at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, ahead of the coronation ceremony scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Buguma.
According to a statement signed by Sadiq Lawal, director of media and public affairs at the Ooni’s palace, the meeting also focused on strengthening cultural, historical and economic ties between Ile-Ife and Elem Kalabari.
“The visit provided an opportunity for the Kalabari monarch to formally invite the Ooni to the forthcoming Se Diye (Coronation) ceremony scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Buguma, Rivers State,” the statement said.
Dokubo-Asari, also known as Da Amakiri Tubo, said traditional institutions remained vital to community development, conflict resolution and the preservation of cultural heritage.
He commended the Ooni for his leadership and commitment to peace and unity, describing the meeting as an opportunity to strengthen relationships among traditional institutions across Nigeria.
In his response, Oba Ogunwusi welcomed the visit and invitation, saying stronger cooperation among traditional rulers could contribute to national unity, peaceful coexistence, and mutual respect among Nigeria’s diverse cultural communities.
The Ooni also expressed his desire to strengthen cultural, historical, and economic relations between Ile-Ife and Elem Kalabari.
According to him, sustained engagement between traditional institutions could deepen understanding of Nigeria’s diverse identities and shared heritage.
Oba Ogunwusi further commended Dokubo-Asari for what he described as the wisdom and maturity with which he had handled his affairs since ascending the throne.
He said traditional leadership required “courage, prudence and commitment to the welfare of the people.”
As a gesture of goodwill, Oba Ogunwusi presented Dokubo-Asari with a bronze artwork, explaining that the piece symbolised the importance of the people to a traditional leader.
The December 19 coronation is expected to bring together traditional leaders and other dignitaries in Buguma as Dokubo-Asari formally assumes his role as Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari.
