By Babatunde Tiamiyu
A Public Affairs Analyst and a senior lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, Dr Abudullahi Oladipupo, has commended the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal for upholding the Yoruba culture of respect for elders in the manner he greeted the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari as captured in controversial viral video.
Dr. Oladipupo in a post on social media said Oba Lawal should rather be commended for showing respect to Alhaji Sulu-Gambari due to his advanced age and vast experience.
He noted that the Emir’s 84 years of age and his long reign as the 11th Emir of Ilorin have earned him a wealth of knowledge and wisdom.
According to Dr. Oladipupo, Timi of Ede’s action is particularly significant in Yoruba culture, where age and elders are highly respected.
The Communication expert added that in Yoruba tradition, the elderly are revered for their life experience, wisdom, and contributions to the community.
” The Yoruba culture emphasizes the importance of showing respect and deference to elderly individuals. Anyone who violates this is usually abused and many times punished by his or her parent or any elder ones around.” Dr. Oladipupo emphasised.
He therefore commended Oba Lawal, who is 15 years younger than Alhaji Sulu-Gambari, for showing respect , saying the Royal Father has upheld the Yoruba cultural values of respect for elders.
Dr. Oladipupo said rather than condemning Oba Lawal, he should be greatly commended for being a good ambassador of Yoruba culture and value of respect for elders.