Gbonka Ebiri Responds to Sahara Reporters Over Threats to Oba of Benin
I want to express my gratitude for the work Sahara Reporters does for Nigerians. The article they recently published is based on events from over three years ago, stemming from a heated debate between myself and some Edo supremacists. These individuals were known for spreading hatred towards the Ooni of Ife, a revered spiritual leader of the Yoruba people. As a traditionalist, I felt personally attacked by their derogatory remarks about my religion and identity.
The Ooni of Ife was insulted and his title was mocked with the term ‘Hot of Ife’. They also made disrespectful comments about the kidnapping and assault of a Yoruba Oba in Ekiti. My response at that time was impulsive and regrettable, despite the provocation, as I strive to uphold the values of an Omoluabi and a patriotic Nigerian.
I have attached a testimony from someone who witnessed my immediate apology two years ago. When this issue resurfaced three days ago, I offered another apology and detailed the events, unaware that my political opponents would exploit the situation and pay Sahara Reporters to distort the facts for their agenda. I’ve included comments from these same individuals, who have consistently demeaned the Ooni of Ife over the years, which could provoke anyone who regards him as a spiritual leader.
For the fourth time in two years, I apologize for my comments against the Oba. I issued apologies immediately after the incident, again on another platform, and most recently 48 hours ago before the issue escalated further.
I urge Nigerian authorities to address the ongoing hate and threats towards the Ooni of Ife from some individuals mentioned in the tweets below. These attacks provoke unfortunate reactions and have led to attempts to annex Ondo to the Edo empire.
Even as recently as yesterday, these individuals continued to insult the Ooni of Ife, calling him a scammer and thief. Such hurtful and provocative language is unacceptable.
I assure you that such outbursts will not occur from me again. May God bless Nigeria and guide its success.
Apology Gbonka posted Yesterday
In sequel to my audio recording that is being peddled by some individuals where I made certain statements against the Oba of Benin…. I hereby openly apologize to the Oba of Benin stool.
My outburst was because some Bini Supremacists in a session mocked the gruesome killing of an Oba of Ekiti and disrespect to his wife. I responded with the pain I felt at the time and said things that should not have been said.
It is on record that in that same room they called the Ooni of Ife, “Hot of Ife”, which made me utter those rash words and this matter happened 3 years ago.
Once again, apologies to the Oba of Benin stool which is an Oduduwa stool, therefore a stool I belong to by extension. I reached out and apologized to the Benin people who took offense with the word…. refrained since then from ever talking negatively about the Oba.
This was one reason I have stayed away from every Benin/Yoruba issues…. I refused to get involved with the tensions about the joke of the Oba among his brothers when he visited Lagos
I wish the Oba of Benin and his family long life and prosperity in good health and riches in abundance
The issue remains though that when I believe someone is attempting to use the rising Yoruba consciousness for a dangerous selfish agenda, I have a duty voice it out and give caution.
God bless Nigeria.
