Two Nigerian Governors Felicitates Monarch On One Year Anniversary 

… Hails King On Service For Humanity 

By Samuel Sunday 

Two Nigerian Governors, one former and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Bisi Akande and the current Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu has felicitated with a prominent monarch of Olumegbon of Ajah in Lagos State, Oba Abdullateef Lawal on his one year anniversary in the throne.

The two Governor’s equally hailed Oba Abdullateef Lawal on his commitment towards service for humanity and his unwavering commitment to the development of his community since he assumed position as a monarch. 

Speaking at the anniversary, Chief Akande, represented by Oba Ademola Kolawole, the Owajigbo of Ejigbo Orangun of Ila, described the traditional ruler’s one year reign as impactful, people-oriented anchored on peace and  inclusiveness. 

He explained how Oba Abdullateef Lawal has demonstrated rare humility, wisdom and compassion in the discharge of his traditional responsibilities, adding that the monarch has continued to place the welfare of his people above personal interest.

According to him, within one year on the throne, Oba Lawal has shown uncommon dedication to service and humanity and his reign has been characterized by peace, accessibility and genuine concern for the wellbeing of the people of Ajah. 

“The monarch’s leadership style had strengthened unity among indigenes, promoted dialogue and enhanced the relevance of the traditional institution in a fast-changing society.

“I also want to laud the Olumegbon’s collaborative relationship with government and other stakeholders and such synergy was crucial for grassroots development and social stability,” he said.

He urged the people of Ajah and Okun Ajah both at home and in the diaspora to continue to support the monarch’s vision for peace and sustainable development of the Kingdom.

Akande prayed for continued wisdom, good health and divine guidance for the Olumegbon as he steers the affairs of Ajah in the years ahead.

Also, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State in his goodwill message to mark the first anniversary of the coronation of Oba AbdulLateef Kolawole Lawal, said, it gave him great pleasure to witnessed the monarch’s first year on the throne.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, also represented by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Rural Development, Mr Bolaji Kayode-Robert, said Oba Lawal had already distinguished his reign through wisdom, unity and an unwavering commitment to peace, harmony and the overall advancement of the Kingdom.

He explained that the noble qualities seen in the monarch had reflected on the true essence of royal leadership.

According to him, Lagos State government holds traditional institutions in highest esteem and Obas are partners in governance and custodians of culture, tradition and communal values.

“I commend Oba Lawal for fostering cordial relations with government, by promoting peaceful coexistence and encouraging responsible citizenship among his people, pledging that such partnership will continue to yield positive dividends for development and stability within communities.

“As Lagos State continues its steady march towards greater prosperity, I emphasised that unity, peace and collective responsibility should be our priority collectively. 

He urged the people of Ajah and Okun Ajah Kingdom to remain steadfast in their support for the monarch, and uphold the values of harmony and mutual respect, thereby remain law-abiding at all times.

The Governor also commended the Council of Chiefs, Elders and the entire people of Ajah and Okun Ajah Kingdom for standing firmly with their monarch during the first year of his reign, describing their loyalty and cooperation as pillars of enduring progress.

He prayed that God Almighty would continue to endow Oba Lawal with sound health, divine wisdom and long life, so that his reign would remain peaceful and prosperous.

He further prayed that Ajah and Okun Ajah Kingdom would continue to flourish.

Earlier, The Olumegbon of Ajah and Okun Ajah Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba AbdulLateef Kolawole Lawal, Akinwon IV,  reaffirmed his commitment to deeper service, unity, and development of the Ajah Kingdom. 

Oba Lawal praised Chief Akande for his love for traditional institutions and support for the entire people of Ajah Kingdom. 

The King described the past 365 days as a period marked by honour, deep reflection and unwavering dedication to the welfare of his people.

“Exactly one year ago, I ascended the throne of my forefathers. It has been a journey filled with honour, moments of sober reflection and, above all, dedicated service.

“With a humble heart, I give gratitude first to Almighty God, then to our noble ancestors, and to every sons and daughters of Ajah and Okun Ajah who have stood firmly by my side,” he said.

He attributed his emergence and sustenance on the throne to divine providence, stressing that his Kingship was ordained by God.

“Without God’s grace, strength and constant guidance, none of this would have been possible. 

“I commend the Kingmakers, High Chiefs, Elders and members of the Palace Council for the trust reposed in me which he described as a sacred responsibility.

“Your wise counsel and steadfast loyalty have been my pillar. What you offer is not merely support for one man, but a shared duty to uphold the dignity, relevance and moral authority of our cherished traditional institutions in a fast-changing world,” the Monarch said.