The presidential aspiration of All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Tinubu got a boost yesterday with prayers and pledge of support from the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III and the Olubadan-designate, High Chief Lekan Balogun.
The former Lagos governor has being on a consultation tour to traditional rulers. Last weekend, Tinubu was at the palaces of the Alake, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III; the Awujale of Ijebu-Ode, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona and the Olu of Ilaro Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.
He was also in Sokoto State, where he held talks with Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III. At the Alaafin’s palace, Oba Adeyemi prayed for the realisation of Tinubu’s ambition, expressing confidence that the Yoruba ancestors would back him.
The foremost royal father said: “If I check my list now, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the first presidential aspirant to visit me.
“All you the chiefs and traditional rulers, you have heard what our visitor said. He said our prayers are needed. All the ancestors in Yoruba land get up and assist your son,” the Alaafin prayed
Explaining his mission, Tinubu said his visit was to seek the monarch’s blessing, cooperation and prayers on his ambition.
The APC chieftain said: “I am happy to see you. You have done 51st anniversary on the throne and you are still looking fine. We thank you as you are leading us and caring for us.
“I thank all of you, leaders from other parts of the state. I thank you, the Oyomesi and other traditional leaders. I also thank you, Bishop Ayo Ladigbolu.
”If you read Bishop Ladigbolu’s book, he didn’t only speak about June 12, but he spoke louder about MKO Abiola. He spoke and the world listened,” he said.
He lauded the monarch for the support extended to him over the years, pointing out that the Alaafin had been his special royal adviser, telling him the truth all the time on any matter.
Tinubu said he considered it proper to inform the monarch, seek his royal blessings and advice on his presidential ambition.
He said: “We are still using the wisdom you taught us. We are still applying the same wisdom you gave us and that is what brought us to where we are today.”