Otunba Gani Adams who was recently announced by the Alaafin of Oyo as the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, has said “the attribute is not about wealth but about the ability to lead and I have over six million people supporting me in the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC). I have charity organizations that help the people. I spend over N250, 000 everyday on the people and I am not poor although I may not be as wealthy as the late Chief MKO Abiola when he bagged the title. “I am now 47 years-old and old enough to rule the nation. So, the Aare Ona Kakanfo is a position I can bear very well with the support of God and the people.”
Leader of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), explained that his new title had placed a fatherly role on him as such he must be seen to be in good accord with all and move forward the Yoruba race.
Adams at a media parley in Lagos said; “Most of the people who have been Aare Ona Kakanfo were not up to 50. Chief MKO Abiola was not up to 50 years when he became Aare Ona Kakanfo in 1988, Chief Samuel Akintola was not up to 54 in 1964 when he was given the title. Apart from the two I mentioned, most of the Aare Ona Kakanfo were younger because, according to the history of the Yoruba race, they always look for a courageous young blood that can face external aggressors.
“It is not about the age, it is about your charisma, determination, loyalty to the Alaafin of Oyo, focus and your interest in the cause of Yoruba race. Those are the factors that are usually considered.
“When I told Kabiyesi I was ready, he called me the second day that I should send him my bio data which I did. He promised to consult with traditional rulers and political stakeholders in Yoruba land on the title. That was in June this year.
“The Aare Ona Kakanfo is a position of service to Yoruba land, one can only attain the position as a freedom fighter, philanthropist. Abiola attained it in 1988 as a philanthropist, Ladoke Akintola attained it as Premier of Western Region.
“The Kabiyesi considered me because I promote Yoruba culture. When people the Kabiyesi consulted called to inform me, I told them I was not desperate but that I was ready to serve the Yoruba race.
“I have been involved in service to Yoruba race since March 15, 1999 when I became the National Coordinator of the OPC.”
“The Aare Ona Kakanfo will moderate my radicalism. I am ready to mend fences and resolve any situation or any issue I have with any Yoruba person and Nigeria in general, but I will not compromise my principle. As Aare Ona Kakanfo I intend to promote the unity and culture of Yoruba.”
