Oba Akiolu celebrates 23 years on throne with prayers for Tinubu, Nigeria

Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu on Saturday marked his 23rd coronation anniversary with prayers for Nigeria and Bola Tinubu, while reflecting on his journey to the throne, his years in the Nigeria Police Force and the importance of integrity in leadership.

The anniversary celebration, held at the Iga Idunganran Palace in Lagos, drew Islamic clerics, traditional chiefs, family members and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the monarch’s reign and offer prayers for peace and stability in the country.

Oba Akiolu, who is also Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, described his emergence as Oba of Lagos in 2003 as divine destiny, saying his ascension to the throne was ordained by God despite opposition from some quarters.

“It pleased God Almighty Allah to single me out. Not that I was the only qualified person, but it was the wish of God,” the monarch said.

The traditional ruler recalled receiving confirmation of his appointment on May 23, 2003, at his Lagos residence, adding that he prayed at the time for Tinubu’s political rise and eventual emergence as president of Nigeria.

“God Almighty Allah revealed to me that he would grow gradually and become the president of this country,” he stated.

Oba Akiolu used the occasion to urge Nigerians to continue supporting Tinubu’s administration, expressing optimism that the economic and infrastructural reforms introduced by the Federal Government would eventually yield positive results.

“The journey may be rough, but they will succeed because God Almighty has a way of doing things,” he said.

The monarch praised Tinubu’s developmental vision, particularly major infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Badagry-Sokoto road corridor, noting that many of the projects were conceived years ago.

Reflecting on his 32-year policing career, the former Assistant Inspector General of Police described the Nigeria Police Force as a noble profession when practised with discipline, integrity and fear of God.

He also recounted rejecting a ₦5 million bribe during the regime of late General Sani Abacha after helping to facilitate the release of the international passport of former Lagos governor, the late Sir Michael Otedola.

According to him, an emissary later approached him with the money in appreciation, but he declined the offer.

“It is not because of money. Anything anybody is doing, do it with the fear of God and pray to God,” he said.

Speaking on insecurity and national challenges, Oba Akiolu urged Nigerians to remain united, prayerful and supportive of one another.

“The insecurity we are experiencing now, God Almighty Allah will bring it under control. We must all be our brother’s keeper,” he stated.

The monarch also charged journalists and public office holders to uphold truth, fairness and service to humanity, describing the media as a powerful institution capable of shaping society positively.

Meanwhile, Islamic clerics led by representatives of the Chief Imam of Lagos offered prayers for the monarch, thanking God for preserving his life and sustaining his reign over the past 23 years.

Speaking during the prayer session, Sheikh Abdul Badish Saeed Sabah said the gathering was organised to appreciate Almighty Allah for granting the monarch good health and longevity on the throne.

“The essence of the prayer is just to thank Almighty Allah for restoring his life to today,” he said.