Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior says traditional rulers are key to enhancing security architecture of the country, noting that the strength of Monarchs on security cannot be deemphasized.
The Minister popularly referred to as BTO made this known at the weekend when he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Thanksgiving Service of the 70th birthday and 17th coronation anniversary of the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, at the Diocese of Ondo (Anglican Communion) Cathedral Church of St. Stephen, Ondo city.
The Minister appealed to everyone to keep supporting the traditional rulers in their respective communities in ensuring that there is peace and security in the country.
“I want to urge sons and daughters as well as residents of Ondo Kingdom to continue to support our Royal Father in his strive to see the kingdom develop culturally and socio-economically.
“All I can wish is that this should continue and probably get better under the leadership of kabiyesi as he continues to lead us in the right direction”, he said.
Meanwhile, in a congratulatory letter, President Tinubu emphasised that the Federal Government was not unaware of the support Oba Kiladejo lent agencies, institutions and government officials in relation with the Ondo community over the years.
He said: “You pulled out to mount the throne of your forefathers, as the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom.
“It is evident that 17 years on, your imperial majesty has made that expansive office admirable, thus proving that the kingmakers of Ondo, obviously operating under divine inspiration, did not make a mistake in their unanimous choice of you as the Osemawe in 2006.
“Today, no one needs to go too far to encounter the evidence of your impactful reign over Ondo Ekimogun people. They are visible all over the community, and touch practically all aspects of human endeavour.
“On a personal note, let me, once again, express my appreciation to you for the two letters of congratulation you so graciously sent to me upon my victory at the February 2023 polls, and later, my subsequent inauguration as President.
“I pray that the years ahead turn out to be much more remarkable, for you, your immediate family, and the good people of Ondo Kingdom, whom you have led so admirably these past 17 years. May your reign continue to be fruitful and prosperous.”
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