President Bola Tinubu highlighted the reasons behind the conferment of the title of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, saying that Awujale has played significant role fighting for democracy.
In a statement released by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, Tinubu expressed the government’s decision to take over Oba Adetona’s policy school to enhance its effectiveness.
Speaking at the ceremony marking the monarch’s 90th birthday at the Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, Tinubu praised Awujale’s commitment to education and his role in advocating for democracy during the country’s struggle from 1993 to 1999.
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“We are celebrating courage, dignity, honour, and a life wholly committed to duty and service,” Tinubu said, acknowledging the pivotal role played by Oba Adetona in the country’s democratic journey. “He stood his ground and confronted injustice and oppression… 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 Vice President Kashim Shettima, lauded Oba’s longstanding dedication to service and his transcendental status throughout his 64-year reign.
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