- Be Your Brother’s Keeper to End Insecurity – Oba Akiolu
- I Rejected ₦5m Bribe During Abacha Era
- Tinubu Backed My Emergence as Oba of Lagos
The Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Aremu Akiolu, has called on Nigerians to look out for one another as part of efforts to tackle the growing insecurity across the country.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the monarch made the appeal during a special prayer session held to mark his 23rd coronation anniversary, where prayers were also offered for Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking during the event, Oba Akiolu urged Nigerians to remain united, prayerful and supportive of one another despite the country’s current challenges.
The traditional ruler, who also serves as Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, appealed to citizens to remain patient with the ongoing reforms introduced by the Federal Government, expressing confidence that the policies would eventually produce positive results.
Reflecting on his years in the Nigeria Police Force, the monarch described policing as one of the noblest professions when carried out with discipline, integrity and the fear of God.
Oba Akiolu, a former Assistant Inspector-General of Police, recalled an incident during the military regime of late Head of State, Sani Abacha, when he allegedly rejected a ₦5 million bribe.
According to him, the incident happened after he intervened in securing the release of the international passport of former Lagos State governor, Michael Otedola, who had been detained at the time.
The monarch said an emissary later approached him with ₦5 million in appreciation, but he turned down the offer.
Oba Akiolu also urged Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration, saying the government’s economic and infrastructural reforms would eventually benefit the country.
He described his emergence as the Oba of Lagos as an act of destiny, recalling that President Tinubu stood firmly behind him despite opposition from some quarters.
The monarch expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life, family and reign over the past 23 years.
He further advised journalists and public office holders to uphold truth, fairness and service to humanity, noting that the media remains a powerful force capable of shaping society positively.
Islamic clerics led by representatives of the Chief Imam of Lagos also offered prayers for the monarch and for peace and progress in Nigeria during the anniversary celebration.
FURTHER READING
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- Lagos Expands Infrastructure at Agbowa Timberville Project in Epe
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