Ooni of Ife Calls for Afro-Brazilians to Embrace Their Ancestral Heritage in Africa
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has made a heartfelt appeal for Afro-Brazilians to return to their ancestral homeland, emphasizing the vital connection between Brazil and the Yoruba culture.
His statement coincided with a congratulatory message to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his recent re-election.
Ogunwusi hailed Lula as a true friend of Africa and expressed hope that his leadership would strengthen ties between Brazil and African nations, especially Nigeria.
Highlighting his significant five-day visit to Brazil in 2023, where he participated in the first National Isese Day, Ogunwusi launched his “Back To Home” initiative.
This program aims to inspire Afro-Brazilians to reconnect with their African roots.During his travels to São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Bahia, and Brasília, the Ooni engaged with local leaders and communities, advocating for a unified approach among African descendants.
“We cannot afford to be divided again. We are one, irrespective of color and race,” he declared.
The monarch assured Afro-Brazilians of a warm welcome in Ile-Ife, which he regards as a spiritual home for those of Yoruba descent.
“There are free lands available for you to build and reside across Africa,” he promised.
In a private discussion with President Lula in Brasília, the Ooni focused on enhancing cultural and trade relations between Brazil and Africa.
He proposed establishing direct air links to facilitate commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Lula expressed gratitude for the Ooni’s efforts to reconnect Afro-Brazilians with their heritage, reaffirming his government’s commitment to strengthening relations with Africa and the Yoruba community.
Ogunwusi’s vision extends beyond immediate connections; he aims to inspire people of African descent in the diaspora to collaborate with their African counterparts for collective advancement.
“This is what we want to see: a journey back home,” he affirmed, promoting solidarity among all people of African descent.
The Ooni’s call for cultural reconnection and unity highlights a crucial movement to bridge the gap between Africa and its diaspora, fostering a shared identity rooted in heritage and history.
