President Bola Tinubu has explained why the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, deserved to be conferred with the title of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger.
Tinubu highlighted Oba Adetona’s significant role in the fight for democracy in Nigeria between 1993 and 1999, during the military juntas’ rule.
“The second highest national honour conferred on the revered monarch is to celebrate dignity, courage, and honour,” stated the president.
A statement released on Friday by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, confirmed this.
The statement also mentioned that the Federal Government would take over Oba Adetona’s policy school to ensure effective output.
Tinubu made this announcement during a ceremony marking the monarch’s 90th birthday at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State.
Applauding the Awujale’s legacy of education, the President said, “We are celebrating courage, dignity, honour, and a life wholly committed to duty and service.
“He (Awujale) stood his ground and confronted injustice and oppression during our struggle for democracy between 1993 and 1999. If democracy is blossoming today, it is because patriarchs like Oba Adetona stood firmly on the side of the people.”
“To ensure the knowledge production and intellectual output of the post-graduate school benefit the entire country, NIPSS will take over the running and management of Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies,” he added.
President Tinubu, represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, acknowledged Oba’s transcendental status and dedication to service throughout his 64-year reign.
