Inside Tinubu’s visit honouring Awujale’s role in 2023 election

By Adejoke Adeleye

President Bola Tinubu has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, crediting the revered monarch for his pivotal role in the success of the 2023 presidential election.

Speaking at the 8th Day Fidau Prayer held at the Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, Tinubu described the late Awujale as a steadfast supporter and a towering figure in Yoruba history.

The event drew a distinguished gathering, including Governors Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), alongside deputy governors from Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo states.

Former governors Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as National Assembly members, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, ministers, and traditional rulers, were also in attendance.

Tinubu highlighted Oba Adetona’s unwavering commitment to justice, particularly his resolute support for the revalidation of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election won by Chief MKO Abiola.

“The Awujale was a beacon of truth and courage,” Tinubu said.

“He stood firmly with us during the June 12 struggle, never wavering in his resolve. His honesty and boldness were unmatched.”

The President praised the late monarch as a pride of Yorubaland, whose contributions brought dignity to the Yoruba race and left an indelible mark on its history.

“Oba Adetona was a man of principle who championed causes he believed in with courage and integrity,” Tinubu noted, expressing gratitude for the monarch’s long life of 91 years.

Tinubu also commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his care toward the late Awujale, urging the people of Ijebuland to unite in preserving the monarch’s legacies for the continued progress of the region and Nigeria.

In his remarks, Governor Abiodun described the Awujale as a moral compass whose reign ushered in unprecedented development in Ijebuland.

“Oba Adetona was a mentor to many, a voice for the less privileged, and a champion of Ijebu culture and dignity,” he said.

The governor emphasized the late monarch’s role in fostering religious harmony, uniting people across faiths, and promoting peace in Ijebuland and Ogun State.

Abiodun called on the community to honor the Awujale’s memory by reflecting on his life of service and maintaining peace to sustain the development of the state and nation.

The Fidau Prayer served as a moment of collective reflection, celebrating a monarch whose legacy of unity, integrity, and progress continues to inspire.