Obaloluwa Darasimi

The Olowu of Kuta Kingdom, Osun State, His Royal Majesty Oba Hameed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, Tegbosun III, has congratulated the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta, Ogun State, His Royal Majesty Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola, Olúyálọ̀ Ọ̀tílẹ́ta VII, on the occasion of his coronation anniversary.

In a congratulatory message, Oba Oyelude described the celebration as a testament to God’s grace and the remarkable leadership that has characterised the reign of the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta since his ascension to the throne.

The revered monarch commended Oba Matemilola for his unwavering commitment to promoting peace, unity, cultural heritage and sustainable development in Owu Abeokuta, noting that his reign has continued to attract admiration and respect across Nigeria and beyond.

Oba Oyelude prayed that Almighty God would grant the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta many more years in good health, divine wisdom and renewed strength to continue providing purposeful leadership for the people of Owu Abeokuta and contributing meaningfully to national development.

He wished the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta a joyous coronation celebration. He reaffirmed the enduring bond of brotherhood among traditional rulers committed to preserving the rich Yoruba cultural heritage, fostering peaceful coexistence and advancing the development of their respective communities.

The Olowu of Kuta further expressed confidence that the reign of the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta would continue to usher in greater peace, progress and prosperity for Owu Abeokuta, while inspiring future generations through exemplary traditional leadership.

*Forum backs Hamzat for Lagos governorship

The second- term of the Nigerian president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, got a boost as another Lagos group declared its support for him.

The group, the Lagos State Prominent Indigenes Forum (LSPIF), at a political summit held in Surulere, Lagos, also endorsed the current Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat, as its preferred candidate for the office of Lagos State Governor in the 2027 gubernatorial election.

In a motion moved by Chief Adesunbo Onitiri, Convener, and seconded by Dr Lanre Tawry- Coker (PhD), at the occasion, the Forum emphasised that Hamzat had served Lagos with distinction, demonstrated competence, integrity and dedication to public service, and possesses the vision and experience required to build on the achievements of previous administrations, while advancing the interests of all Lagosians.

Towry-Coker said, “Hamzat has the experience, character and capacity to provide purposeful leadership for Lagos State. I, therefore, wholeheartedly second the motion and urge this distinguished gathering to adopt it unanimously.”  The motion was thereafter put to the House and was unanimously adopted by acclamation.

Onitiri, addressing members of the Forum, drawn from five Divisions of Lagos State, said, “Today is not just another political rally. It is a gathering of history, a gathering of destiny, ready to move Lagos and Nigeria forward.

“Today is a gathering of proud sons and daughters of Lagos State who have come together with one purpose, to reaffirm our unity, strengthen our resolve, and prepare for victory in 2027.

“For the first time, an indigene of Lagos State, President Bola Tinubu, is leading our great nation. This is a moment we must cherish, protect, and strengthen—not for personal gain, but for the continued progress, stability, and development of Nigeria.

“This election is more than politics. It is about continuity, experience, leadership, and our collective vision for a stronger nation.”

He stressed the Forum was to unite indigenous Lagosians and encourage greater participation in the democratic process while continuing to contribute to the growth of the State and the nation.

Onitiri pleaded passionately that every indigene of Lagos State should take active interest in politics and never again regard politics as something dirty or meant for a select few.

“Politics is the instrument through which societies allocate opportunities, make decisions, and share resources. If we choose to stand on the sidelines, we leave our future, our interests, and the destiny of generations yet unborn in the exclusive hands of others.

“We must therefore participate not only by voting, but by organising, leading, contesting, supporting worthy candidates, and contributing positively to the democratic process.

“The future of Lagos belongs to those who are willing to help shape it.” No election is won at a rally. Elections are won through organisation, mobilisation, voter participation, and commitment at the grassroots, Onitiri added.

He stressed the need for continued advocacy for the inclusion and meaningful participation of indigenous Lagosians in governance and public service.

As we support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we equally reaffirm our belief that Lagos State should continue to benefit from the talents, experience, and contributions of its indigenous citizens, he concluded.

Among dignitaries at the Summit are: the Director-General, Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat Campaign Organisation, Musiliu Obanikoro; Mrs Wonu Folami, Alhaja Fehintola Okunola, Alhaji Olagbaiye, former Permsec; Chief Jaji; former deputy governors of the state, Princess Adefulire Orelope and Mrs Sarkah Sosan; Sen Ashafa; H E Bode  Oyedele, among others.