“Awujale Told Me I’d Rule For 8 Years”- Tinubu Recalls Late Awujale’s Words Of Blessing

• President Bola Ahmed Tinubu honored the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, during the 8th-day Fidau prayers.
• Tinubu expressed gratitude for the monarch’s support and blessings, which he credited as instrumental in his presidential journey.
• He recalled a significant moment when the late king assured him of victory in his election and re-election.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, crediting the monarch’s support and blessings as a source of strength on his path to the presidency.

Speaking at the 8th-day Fidau prayers held at Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, Tinubu reflected on the impactful relationship he shared with the revered king. “I was successful because of your support and the blessing of the late Awujale. I came to him and he blessed me. He said, ‘You will win that election and you will be re-elected. Go ahead,’” Tinubu said.

He went on to commend Oba Adetona’s deep wisdom and moral integrity, describing him as a man guided by truth, courage, and honour. “Today marks a very great day in the history of our nation, and particularly the Yoruba race. If you want to understand our culture deeply, start from Awujale. You will learn a lot,” the president added.

Recalling the monarch’s role in the nation’s democratic history, Tinubu praised his steadfast support during Nigeria’s political crisis following the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. “During our protests and resistance against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Baba was always there steadfast and encouraging.”

Tinubu also proudly remembered the national honour bestowed upon Oba Adetona at the age of 90. “Very honest, very bold, and very truthful he would not deceive you,” he said.

Earlier in the day, the president had visited the late monarch’s family privately, where he laid a wreath at his gravesite before proceeding to the stadium for the public prayer event.

In his message to Ijebuland indigenes and political leaders, Tinubu urged them to uphold the monarch’s legacy by promoting unity and preserving the values he championed. “Kabiyesi was more than a monarch; he was a beacon of hope and a custodian of our culture. We must cherish his legacy and allow the spirit of unity he left behind to guide us,” he said.

The Fidau prayer attracted an array of dignitaries from across Nigeria. Among those present were First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, and former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba.

Also in attendance were federal ministers including Wale Edun, Festus Keyamo, Dele Alake, and Bosun Tijani, as well as Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Senators Seriake Dickson and Solomon Adeola, Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives Ibrahim Isiaka, and Representative Olumide Osoba.

Traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the Ijebu community turned out in large numbers for the solemn occasion. Prior to the stadium gathering, both Islamic and Christian clerics had offered prayers at the monarch’s palace.

In his tribute, Governor Dapo Abiodun described the Awujale as not only a royal figure but also a moral guide whose reign had a transformative impact on Ijebuland. “Kabiyesi was not just a ruler; he was a mentor. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” Abiodun stated.