President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has acknowledged the huge contributions of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, towards his success in the 2023 presidential election.
President Tinubu disclosed this in his tribute at the 8th Day Fidau Prayer for the late Oba Adetona, held at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, and attended by eminent personalities, including the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji, the Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Governor of Kwara State Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq.
Others present included the Deputy Governors of Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo states, former governors Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Ibikunle Amosun, members of the National Assembly, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Ministers, traditional rulers, among others.
President Tinubu also said that the late Awujale was steadfast and resolute in his support for the revalidation of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, won by Chief MKO Abiola.
“The Awujale was always there for us. He supported us during the June 12 annulment. He was steadfast and resolute. He was very honest, bold, courageous, and truthful. He would not deceive you,” the President insisted.
According to the President, the late Awujale was a pride to Yoruba land, noting that apart from being truthful, he was also courageous, bold, and honest while supporting a cause he believed was right.
Oba Adetona, the President noted, brought dignity to the Yoruba race, adding that Yoruba history would not be complete without the contributions of the Awujale.
While thanking God for granting the deceased monarch a long life to live up to 91 years, the President appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for his care towards the late Oba, calling on the people to unite and cherish the legacies the Awujale left behind.
Speaking earlier, Governor Abiodun described the Awujale as a moral compass whose reign brought unprecedented development to Ijebuland.
According to Governor Abiodun, the late Oba, apart from upholding the dignity and culture of Ijebuland, was a voice for the less privileged and served as a mentor to many, adding that he made a positive impact during his lifetime.
The Awujale, the governor noted, was a man of unshaken faith who used his position to unite his people despite their religious differences, thus promoting religious harmony in Ijebuland and the state in general.
Governor Abiodun called on the people to reflect on the life and legacies of the Awujale and remain peaceful for the continued development of the state and the country.
