BREAKING NEWS: Sanwo-Olu, others celebrate Alara on coronation anniversary

Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Photo: State House

 Top government functionaries, including Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Imo State counterpart, Hope Uzodinma, and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, have extolled the virtue of the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo (Telade IV), as he marked his fifth coronation anniversary.

The three-day event, which commenced on Friday, August 15, featured a street parade, Jumat service, commemorative football match, as well as empowerment and free medical outreach for residents of the kingdom.

Sanwo-Olu, in his goodwill message, commended Oba Ogunsanwo’s leadership, describing his reign as impactful and progressive.

The governor said, “In just five years, Your Majesty’s reign has left a lasting imprint on Ilara and the wider Epe division. You have led with wisdom, dignity, and a genuine devotion to the welfare of your people; championing peace, fostering unity and safeguarding the proud traditions of Ilara, even as you embrace the opportunities of progress and development.”

In a similar message, Uzodinma described Oba Ogunsanwo’s reign as impactful, saying, “Through your commitment, hardwork and inclusive leadership, your reign has ushered in unprecedented development and prosperity of the kingdom.”

Similarly, the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat and the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudasiru Obasa, all extolled the virtues of Oba Ogunsanwo in separate letters.

On his part, a former governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, recalled the king’s contributions to the development of Lagos State as a public officer.

“Your contributions and leadership roles in your public service career before and during my administration as the Governor of Lagos State, stand you out as a king to be reckoned with and respected.

“Your esteemed role as the South-West Coordinator of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria reflects your influence and the respect you command, not only within Lagos State but across the nation,” Ambode said.

The former governor also commended the monarch’s tireless efforts “in advancing grassroots development, promoting cultural heritage and fostering harmony among diverse groups in traditional institutions across Lagos and beyond.”

Also, the Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. Ayodele Subair, who is Ogunsanwo’s successor at the tax office, said: “Your family at the LIRS joins the good people of Ilara Kingdom and Lagos State in honouring your legacy and praying for greater accomplishments in the years ahead.”

In his tribute, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi wrote: “Over the years, Kabiyesi’s reign has brought peace, unity and prosperity to the ancient Ilara kingdom. As we reflect on these five fruitful years, may this occasion inspire us and future generations to appreciate the depth of our traditions and the greatness that lies in selfless leadership.”

Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, said: “These past five years have witnessed your steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional service and guiding your people with the dignity and wisdom that traditional leadership embodies.”

In his tribute, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, Sarkin Kano, said: “We congratulate Your Majesty, indeed it is a moment of joy and a reflection of the good work of Your Majesty to the people and communities you are serving within the period of your stewardship.”

Others who extolled Alara’s virtues in their tributes include the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa; Former governor of Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel; the king (Dein) of Agbor, Benjamin Ijechukwu; the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatubde Ajayi; the Etsu of Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubajar; and the 61st President and Chairman of Council, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Mallam Haruna Yahaya.

As part of activities marking the coronation, chieftaincy titles will be conferred on seven deserving individuals and couples whose contributions to the development of Ilara kingdom.