The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso 1, yesterday paid a glowing picture of the relationship that exists between the Yoruba and their Igbo brothers, describing it as very cordial and encouraging.

The monarch made the assertion while welcoming the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe, and his entourage to the Popoyemoja, Ibadan palace.

Oba Adetunji said the relationship between the Yoruba and Igbo has dated back to several years, adding that while the Igbos deserve commendation for their industry and ingenuity, Ibadan has provided educational and residential opportunities for all Nigerians irrespective of tribe, religion and ideological persuation to be whatever they want to be.

The Olubadan stated further that the doors of Ibadan would continue to be open to all Nigerians particularly the Igbos to set up their business ventures anywhere in the land and be fairly treated.

Accompanying the Olubadan to welcome the Obi were the Otun Olubadan, Senator Lekan Balogun; Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin; Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Femi Olaifa, and Asipa Olubadan, High Chief Eddy Oyewole.

Earlier, Achebe had congratulated the Olubadan on his ascension of the exalted throne of his forefathers in a peaceful manner.

He said his mission and that of his entourage was to deliver a lecture, using Ibadan as a case study of peaceful process in transition.

He described Ibadan as “a great nation with great people”, noting that: “Ibadan city is not strange at all to the people of Onitsha who have come here to school, marry and live.”

He described the Olubadan as one of the foremost traditional rulers whose wealth of experience could be tapped from time to time.