Nigeria’s story would’ve been incomplete without my 2023 election victory – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday remarked that Nigeria’s historical narrative would have remained unfinished had he not emerged victorious in the 2023 presidential election.

Speaking during the 8th-day Fidau prayers for the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, Tinubu paid heartfelt tribute to the revered monarch, crediting him for playing a significant role in his political ascent.

According to the president, the nation’s legacy would have lacked depth and completeness without his success at the polls.

“Our history would not have been completed, carefully and richly, if I failed the last election,” Tinubu stated. “I was successful because of your support and the blessing of late Awujale. I came to him, he blessed me… He said ‘you will win that election and you will win one more time. Go ahead.’ Today, he is no more. He is gone.”

The president praised Oba Adetona for his courage, clarity of thought, and unwavering commitment to democratic values, particularly his role in the events surrounding the June 12 movement.

Tinubu also extended his gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State—whom he referred to as the “Okanlomo Eleyi of Ogun State”—for the support he rendered throughout the burial rites.

Governor Abiodun, in his remarks, urged the people of Ijebuland to stay united and continue upholding the principles of harmony and peace that the late monarch had stood for. He encouraged citizens to honour Oba Adetona’s memory by embodying qualities such as integrity, service, and respect for the rule of law.

Delivering a brief sermon at the prayer session, the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Professor Kamaldeen Bello, reminded attendees of life’s transience.

“We will all taste death, so live as though today is your last,” he advised.

The prayer gathering drew dignitaries from across the country, including governors from Kwara, Ondo, and Ekiti States, as well as deputy governors from Lagos and Oyo States. Several ministers and other top officials were also present to pay their respects.