Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, to continue leveraging his extensive experience as a fearless and compassionate leader to promote unity, peace, and religious tolerance across Nigeria.
According to The PUNCH, Abiodun made this appeal during the ceremonial conferment of the title “Amir ul Mulukil Muslimin Fi Bilad’, Commander of Muslim Kings, in Yoruba land, Edo, and Delta States on the nonagenarian monarch.
The event, which took place on Tuesday at the Ijebu-Ode Palace grounds, was organized by the League of Imams and Alfas from these regions.
The occasion drew an array of distinguished guests, including the Asiwaju of Ijebuland, Alhaji Adebola Adegunwa; Chairman of Bigi Industries, former Ogun State Deputy Governors Senator Gbenga Kaka and Alhaja Salmot Badru; the Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; and the renowned Fuji musician and Olori Omooba of Ijebuland, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, among others.
Speaking at the event, Abiodun expressed that it was unsurprising that such a significant leadership position had been bestowed upon Oba Adetona, given his distinguished leadership, extensive contributions to society, and commitment to fostering a better world.
“Today’s ceremony is a celebration of faith, of values, and of the courageous leadership that the Awujale has exemplified throughout his reign,” Abiodun remarked. He added that the newly conferred ‘Amir’ embodies key virtues of compassion, wisdom, and integrity, making him a perfect fit for the leadership role.
“Your choice for this leadership role as ‘Amir ul Mulukil Muslimin’ is a symbol of your inclusivity, peace, and justice. You stand as a bridge between tradition and modernity. You are a man of faith, you are God-fearing, and you exemplify religious tolerance,” the governor continued.
The Governor further urged Oba Adetona to use his new role to promote peace and unity across Nigeria, emphasizing that sustainable development can only occur in a harmonious environment.
He assured the public of his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring religious tolerance and enhancing national unity.
In an additional announcement, Governor Abiodun revealed the commencement of the long-awaited reconstruction of the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode expressway, noting that the project had just received the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
The Governor disclosed that he had personally sought the President’s intervention during a recent visit to address the deteriorating state of the road, which serves as a vital link for 17 southern states.
“The flagging off of the reconstruction of this critical road will be done today (Tuesday). From here, I will be meeting the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, who will join us for the flag-off,” the Governor said.
He commended President Tinubu for his responsiveness and dedication to national development, urging Nigerians to continue supporting the administration.
Earlier, Professor Emeritus and Chief Imam of Gbagura, Kamaldeen Balogun, commended Oba Adetona, urging him to further promote Islamic development and the welfare of Muslims in Nigeria.
Balogun also appealed to the monarch to advocate for the installation and burial of traditional rulers according to their religious beliefs, a practice that had already been successfully implemented in Ogun State, preventing individuals from being compelled into customs contrary to their faith.
The revered scholar also proposed that the Awujale either establish a university for Muslims or create a world-class library, as a means of immortalizing his legacy and advancing educational opportunities for future generations.
