By Toyin Williams
The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has called on legal practitioners of Yoruba extraction to embrace unity, peace, and professional camaraderie as the foremost association of Yoruba lawyers, Egbe Amofin O’odua, commenced its 2026 National Conference in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
In a statement on Thursday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare said the conference, which attracted distinguished jurists, legal scholars, Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), members of the Bench and Bar, policymakers, academics, and other stakeholders in the justice sector, is being held from June 17 to June 19, 2026, at the Ojaja Royal Banquet Hall, Ile-Ife.
Themed “Advancing Constitutional Democracy: Accountability and Responsible Governance: The Rule of Law,” the conference officially began on Wednesday evening with a grand dinner hosted by the Ooni at his palace, where participants were warmly received in an atmosphere of culture, hospitality, and intellectual engagement.
Speaking at the dinner, the Chairman of Egbe Amofin O’odua, Aare Isiaka Olagunju (SAN), expressed profound appreciation to the Ooni for his exceptional support and hospitality towards the association.
According to him, the 2026 gathering marks the fourth edition of the association’s national conference, noting that no traditional ruler had accorded the body such a warm reception in the history of its conferences.
“This is our fourth national conference, and Kabiyesi, you are the first monarch to receive us in such a remarkable and generous manner. We are grateful for your unwavering support, your commitment to the legal profession, and your passion for the progress of Yorubaland,” Olagunju said.
He described the Ooni as a unifying force and a respected traditional institution whose influence continues to promote peace, development, and cultural pride across the Yoruba nation and beyond.
In his remarks, the Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) thanked members of the association for choosing Ile-Ife, the cradle of the Yoruba race, as the host city for the conference.
The revered monarch stated that he was delighted when informed that he would host the gathering, emphasizing his long-standing relationship with the association and his admiration for the legal profession.
“Lawyers have been in existence for a very long time, and I thank God for the important role they continue to play in society. When I was informed that I would be hosting this conference, I was genuinely happy. I welcome you all to Ile-Ife,” the Ooni said.
The Ooni urged the legal practitioners to continue promoting justice, fairness, and ethical conduct while fostering stronger bonds among themselves.
“Let us continue to do good. I implore all of you to remain united because unity is very important. I have been with this association for a long time and have always attended your programmes.
“Do not allow grudges, divisions, or enmity to exist among you. Instead, spread peace, unity, love, and understanding among yourselves. As custodians of justice and defenders of the rule of law, you must also be ambassadors of peace and harmony in society,” he added.
The Ooni further emphasized that constitutional democracy can only thrive where there is respect for the rule of law, accountability in governance, and collective commitment to national development.
He urged legal practitioners to continue contributing meaningfully to democratic growth, good governance, and institutional strengthening in Nigeria while championing causes that promote justice, equity, and social stability.
The opening dinner was attended by prominent legal luminaries, traditional rulers, public officials, and notable personalities from across the country, setting the stage for robust deliberations on contemporary constitutional and governance issues.
The Ooni was flanked by Her Royal Majesty, Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi, and Her Royal Majesty, Olori Ashley Afolasade Ogunwusi, who joined him in welcoming the distinguished guests to the ancient city.
The conference is expected to feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical sessions, and policy dialogues aimed at advancing democratic governance, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and reinforcing the rule of law in Nigeria.
