Oba Of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu Turns 70 Today

As the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, clocked 70 today, there has been an outpouring of congratulatory messages and commendations from citizens of the country as well as political leaders.

President Goodluck Jonathan, who sent a statement congratulating the royal father last night, said that Akiolu had exhibited exemplary wisdom, courage, selflessness, philanthropy and dedication to the service of his people "since his ascension to the revered throne of Lagos more than 10 years ago."

In the statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President extolled the Oba's exemplary dedication to service.

"President Jonathan joins the people of Lagos and Oba Akiolu's friends, associates and peers across the country in felicitating with the monarch," the statement said, assuring Oba Akiolu that the Federal Government would continue to work diligently, in cooperation with all other tiers of government, towards progressively improving the living conditions of people in his domain and all other parts of Nigeria.

"President Jonathan prays that God Almighty will grant Oba Akiolu continued good health and many more years of commendable service to the people of Lagos and Nigeria. He wishes Oba Akiolu a very happy birthday," the statement said.

In his message to congratulate the Oba, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic party, PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, thanked "God for for His mercies towards you on the occsion of your 70 th birthday.

"This is a significant age; and, we therefore pray that He will continue to guard, guide and imbue you with great understanding and wisdom in the task of facilitating development of your people and peace in Nigeria.
"Indeed, we also sincerely commend your patriotic role in helping to stabilize our nation; and wish you good health, long life and prosperity in the service of the nation, humanity and God."

The Tinubu family simply said: "we celebrate with you on this joyous day of happiness and fulfillment. We pray that your years be long and your wisdom ever increasing."

Alhaji Buari Abu Oloto, said he was joining millions of the Oba's admirers across the globe in rolling out the drums to celebrate him. He wished the traditional ruler God's guidance, wisdom and many more years of purposeful and fruitful leadersip.

The paramount ruler of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Oba Abdulfatai Oyeyinka Aremu Aromire, and the Lagos State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede, also congratulated Oba Akiolu on his birthday, wishing him many more years on the throne.

A Commissioner in Lagos State, Ademorin Kuye, and the Osolo of Isolo, Oba Kabiru Kolawole Agbabiaka, described Oba Akiolu as a true leader that has excelled in the area of promoting unity and peace among the people.
"As a respected symbol of tradition and culture, you are a perfect example of humility, justice and equity," they said.

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, said of the Oba: "you stand tall today and always for your selfless, immeasurable contributions to the cause of humanity, and the huge impact that you have made in the lives of those who have been fortunate to cross your path."
He prayed for long life, good health and prosperity for the Oba.