How I rejected ₦5m gratis during Abacha’s era – Oba Akiolu

.marks 23rd coronation anniversary

.Advocates support for Tinubu, says integrity, fear of God remain key to leadership

By Olasunkanmi Akoni 

The Oba of Lagos, Oba Riliwanu Akiolu, has recalled how he rejected a ₦5 million gift during the regime of late General Sani Abacha.

Akiolu, who marked his 23rd coronation anniversary with prayers for Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu, urged Nigerians to remain patient in the face of the ongoing national reforms, expressing confidence that it would ultimately yield positive results for the country.

Akiolu, who is also Chairman of the State Council of Obas and Chiefs in Lagos State, made the remarks on Saturday, during a special prayer session, held at the Iga Idunganran Palace, Lagos.

The revered monarch, a former Assistant Inspector General of Police, reflected on his 32-year policing career, describing the Nigeria Police Force as one of the noblest professions when practised with integrity, discipline and fear of God.

Speaking with journalists after the prayer session, Akiolu who recounted how he rejected a ₦5 million gratis during the Abacha regime, said the incident occurred when former Lagos State Governor, the late Sir, Michael Otedola, was detained during the military era and needed assistance to secure the release of his international passport.

The monarch said he appealed to the authorities at the time, insisting that releasing the elder statesman was necessary as the military government was seeking wider public acceptance.

He explained that after Otedola’s passport was eventually released, an emissary approached him with an offer of ₦5 million in appreciation, which he rejected.

“It is not because of money. Anything anybody is doing, do it with the fear of God and pray to God,” the monarch said.

Oba Akiolu also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Tinubu, expressing optimism that the government’s economic and infrastructural reforms would eventually benefit the nation.

Reflecting on his ascension to the Lagos throne 23 years ago, the monarch described his emergence as an act of divine destiny, recalling that despite opposition from some quarters, Tinubu stood firmly behind him.

“It pleased God Almighty Allah to single me out. Not that I was the only qualified person, but it was the wish of God,” he stated.

The traditional ruler recalled receiving confirmation of his appointment on May 23, 2003, at his Lagos residence, adding that he prayed at the time for Tinubu’s political rise and eventual emergence as president of Nigeria.

“God Almighty Allah revealed to me that he would grow gradually and become the president of this country,” he added.

Akiolu further praised Tinubu’s long-term developmental vision, noting that major infrastructure projects currently being executed by the Federal Government, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Badagry-Sokoto road corridor, were conceived many years ago.

“The journey may be rough, but they will succeed because God Almighty has a way of doing things,” the monarch stated

Speaking on insecurity across the country, the monarch urged Nigerians to remain united, prayerful and supportive of one another.

“The insecurity we are experiencing now, God Almighty Allah will bring it under control. We must all be our brother’s keeper,” Akiolu urged.

The traditional ruler also charged journalists and public office holders to uphold truth, fairness and service to humanity, describing the media as a powerful institution capable of influencing society positively.

“Your profession is a very noble profession. You can make things happen. Be patient, all will be well with all of us,” he told journalists at the event.

Akiolu expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life and family, revealing that several of his children and grandchildren attended prestigious institutions abroad, including Imperial College London, while one recently qualified as a chartered accountant.

Meanwhile, Islamic clerics led by the Chief Imam of Lagos offered prayers for the monarch on the occasion.

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