By Olanrewaju Adesanya
The Lagos State House of Assembly has extolled the untiring passion of His Royal Majesty, Oba Riliwanu Babatunde Osuolale Akiolu, CFR for the State to triumph, during its plenary on Monday while commemorating his 23rd coronation anniversary as the Oba of Lagos.
The Speaker Rt. Hon Mudashiru Obasa in his remarks about Oba Akiolu in commemoration of his 23rd anniversary on the throne, acknowledged the monarch’s longstanding service and also appreciated his enduring commitment to the people of Lagos State even before ascending the throne.
“His reign is characterized by dedicated service, honor and an unwavering commitment to the development and unity of Lagos State.
“Oba Akiolu’s contributions to the State trace back to his esteemed tenure in the Nigeria Police Force, where he attained the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) prior to his retirement from active duty.
Speaker Obasa expressed appreciation to the Oba of Lagos for his ongoing support to the Lagos State House of Assembly, as well as his significant contributions to the peace, stability and development of the State.
He asserts that Oba Akiolu continues to be a man of honour who plays a significant role in the affairs of the State.
Recognizing the Monarch’s significant contributions to the State over 23 years, the Majority Leader, Hon. Noheem Adams wished the Oba a continued sound health, wisdom and longevity.
Extending his congratulations to the Oba of Lagos, Hon. Kehinde Joseph acknowledged the monarch’s significant contributions to the development of the State particularly during the time when the federal government under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, withheld the statutory allocation that accrues to Lagos State.
He recalled that the Monarch stood firmly with the Lagos State government during the period while contributing to efforts that eventually led to the resolution of the matter in collaboration with the then Governor of Lagos State and now President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Other Lawmakers who lent their voices described the Monarch as a straightforward and forthright traditional ruler, as well as a man of honour who had served the people of Lagos diligently and is still doing so.
Thereafter, Speaker Obasa directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Adenike Oshinowo to convey the Assembly’s congratulatory messages to the Oba of Lagos in a formal letter and placement of adverts in the daily newspapers.
