Ooni’s prayers helped me win Ghana presidency — Mahama

Ghana’s President, John Mahama, has said that prayers offered for him by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, played a role in his victory in the 2023 presidential election.

Mahama spoke in Ile-Ife, Osun State, after the Ooni honoured him with a chieftaincy title, Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source, during activities marking the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary.

The Ghanaian leader arrived in Nigeria through Ibadan Airport and was warmly received by a large crowd before proceeding to Ile-Ife for the ceremony. The event took place at the Ooni’s palace and attracted many dignitaries, including business leaders, traditional rulers, and guests from across Africa.

Among those present were Aliko Dangote, Dele Momodu, the Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, the Olowo of Owo, the Deji of Akure, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, and former President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi, among others.

Mahama explained that after losing the 2016 election, the Ooni invited him to Ile-Ife, prayed for him, and encouraged him. According to Mahama, those prayers later helped him win the 2023 election and become president.

He thanked the Ooni for the honour and promised to continue strengthening the relationship between Nigeria and Ghana. He said the two countries share deep historical and cultural ties, with many people in Ghana tracing their roots to Ile-Ife.

Mahama also called on African leaders to work together to stop military coups on the continent, referring to recent instability in some West African countries.

He praised Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his support and long-standing friendship, dedicating the chieftaincy title to him.

In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife described Mahama as a reform-minded and peace-loving leader who has contributed to stability and unity in Africa.

The Osun State Government, represented by the deputy governor, Kola Adewusi, also described Mahama as a unifying figure among African leaders.