•Dr. Adekunle Hassan(middle)
By Heritage Odih, Abeokuta
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to lead the Federal Government Delegation and other eminent Nigerians to grace a book presentation on “Reinventing Governance in Nigeria,” as part of activities to celebrate the 64th Coronation Anniversary and 90th Birthday of the Paramount Ruler and Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba 11.
The presentation of the book, is expected to be held on May 10, 2024, at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago Iwoye where the President is also expected inaugurate the iconic multi billion naira School of Governance.
The facility was bequeathed to the university for postgraduate studies and research in good governance.
Oba Adetona, who was born on May 10, 1934, ascended the throne of his forefathers on April 2, 1960 following a letter, dated January 4, 1960 referenced CB. 4 1/333, the Permanent Secretary in the Western Region’s Ministry of Local Government conveyed to the Local Government Adviser in Ijebu Ode.
The Chairman of the Awujale’s 64th Coronation and 90th Birthday Anniversary, Dr. Adekunle Hassan, disclosed this on Friday at a news conference held at Awujale’s Palace Ijebu Ode.
Hassan explained that there would also be a documentary on Oba Adetona at the OOU.
He described Oba Adetona as a distinguished Nigerian, that had contributed in no small measure to the unity, progress and development of Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria.
According to Hassan the legendary and foremost traditional ruler, does not discriminate between two major religious adherents, stressing this informed why there is religious harmony in Ijebuland as attested to in the celebration of annual Ojude Oba cultural festival and carnival with all sons and daughters of Ijebu nation participating actively.enmasse.
He reckoned that Oba Adetona represents the totality of the worthy ancestral heritage of a people that had carved a niche for themselves in governance.
“On Friday, May 3, there will be a Jum’at Service at the Ijebu Ode Central Mosque , followed by a Thanksgiving Church Service at the Cathedral Church of Our Saviour, Itaolowajoda, Ijebu Ode.
” On Friday, May 10, the exact date of his 90th birthday, he will be playing host to the President of the country, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu and numerous country men and women at the Olabisi Onabanjo University ,Ago Iwoye.
” The president will witness 2024 edition of the Annual Oba Adetona Professorial Chair Lecture on Governance and a documentary on the legendary traditional ruler.
“The grand finale holds on Saturday, May 11 when the Ijebu nation would be hosting a civic reception in honour of their King who is the Ijebu deity at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu Ode,” he said.
