President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that the history of the Yoruba people would have been incomplete if he had failed to win the 2023 presidential election.

 

The president made the remarks on Sunday during the 8th day Fidau prayer held in honour of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91.

 

Speaking at the solemn event, Tinubu reflected on the pivotal role the late monarch played in his political journey, revealing that Oba Adetona not only encouraged his presidential ambition but also gave him his royal blessing.

 

“Our history would not have been completed carefully and richly if I had failed in the last election,” Tinubu said. “I was successful because of your support and the blessing of the late Awujale.”

 

Oba Adetona, one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs, ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, and reigned for 64 years. He was widely respected for his wisdom, outspokenness, and deep involvement in national discourse.

 

The monarch’s death came just hours after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, his longtime friend and political ally since the 1980s.

 

President Tinubu described the traditional ruler as a pillar of integrity and influence, whose legacy would continue to shape the future of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large.

 

The 8th day Fidau prayer drew dignitaries from across the country, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures, who paid tribute to the late monarch’s enduring impact.