Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, is agog for the centenary birthday celebration of the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, Odugade 1.
The monarch turns 100 today.
The week-long celebration was organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
It begins today with a service at the famous St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo.
President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Abiola Ajimobi are among eminent Nigerians expected at the service.
After the service, Baales, Mogajis and the 11 local government chairmen in Ibadan will pay homage to the monarch.
Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (Oyo South District) and former Abia State Governor Orji Kalu have felicitated with the Olubadan.
In a statement by his media aide, Olawale Sadare, Lanlehin described the monarch as “the greatest living hero of contemporary Africa”.
Lanlehin, who is the Ekarun Bamofin of Ibadanland, said: “This generation is, indeed, blessed with a legendary monarch in Oba Odulana, who has made indelible marks in many spheres of life as an upright individual and a courageous team player. It is on world record that Oba Odulana is a brave man, who fought gallantly as a soldier to restore global peace during the Second World War.
“It is pertinent to re-emphasise that our Kabiyesi is a brilliant one, who impacted and still impacts knowledge on both old and young minds. He is a selfless man who served in politics to uplift the society; a blessed one who nurtured a generation of great minds and the revered one who leads a nation of warriors with success stories all the way.”
Lanlehin lauded the Olubadan’s decision to confer the chieftaincy title of Aare Akogun of Ibadanland on Senate President David Mark as part of activities marking his Centenary birthday celebration.
He said: “The Senate President deserves such honour, being a friend of Ibadan and a patriot.”
Kalu, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Prince Kunle Oyewumi, described Oba Odulana as “one of the few monarchs that command respect in the country”.
He said the Olubadan achieved this by jealously guarding the respect his revered throne deserves.
Kalu said the Olubadan should be commended for not engaging in partisan politics, “which could compromise his integrity and ability to speak up in the face of injustices and wrongs”.
He wished Oba Odulana many more years and good health in upholding Ibadan tradition and providing quality leadership to his people. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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Your Royal Highness, happy birthday Sir!, you live a good life and you have a good heart, you will live more and more years in good health and peace, amen.
ReplyDeleteHapy birthday ur Royal highness
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