Ijebu ode: President Bola Tinubu has attributed his ascent to the presidency to the blessings of the late Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as well as the support of the Nigerian people. Tinubu made these remarks on Sunday during the eight-day Fidau prayer held in honor of the late monarch at Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, Ogun.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, President Tinubu paid moving tributes to Adetona, lauding his impactful reign, leadership, and enduring legacy. He remarked, “Today marks a very great day in the history of Nigeria and particular history of the Yoruba race. I thank God Almighty that I stand before you as the president of Nigeria.” Tinubu emphasized that his electoral success was due to the late Awujale’s blessings, stating, “I came to him and he blessed me, and he said you will win that election and you will win another one. Today, he’s no more.”
Tinubu described Adetona as a revered ruler who brought dignity and pride to Ijebu land and the Yoruba nation. He recalled the monarch’s steadfast support during the pro-democracy June 12 struggle and urged Nigerians to uphold Adetona’s legacy by fostering unity, peace, and national cohesion.
Earlier, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Adetona as more than just a monarch but also as a mentor and moral compass to the nation. “Under Oba Adetona’s leadership, Ijebu land witnessed unprecedented leadership. Kabiyesi upheld the dignity of Ijebu culture and the Yoruba race; his reign brought prestige to our land,” he stated.
The Fidau prayers were attended by a host of dignitaries, including governors, ministers, and senior officials, led by Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman of Kwara.
