Oba of Lagos, Riliwanu Akiolu, Recalls Rejecting ₦5m Gift from Abacha Regime

The Oba of Lagos, Riliwanu Akiolu, has made a stunning revelation about his past. He rejected a ₦5 million gift from the regime of late General Sani Abacha. This incident occurred when former Lagos State Governor, the late Sir Michael Otedola, was detained during the military era and needed assistance to secure the release of his international passport. Akiolu didn't reject the gift because of a personal grudge, but he didn't want to compromise his values.

Akiolu, who is also the Chairman of the State Council of Obas and Chiefs in Lagos State, made this remark on Saturday during a special prayer session held at the Iga Idunganran Palace, Lagos. The revered monarch, a former Assistant Inspector General of Police, reflected on his 32-year policing career. He described the Nigeria Police Force as one of the noblest professions when practised with integrity, discipline, and fear of God. It's a profession that requires a strong sense of morality and ethics.

It's not because of money, Akiolu said. Anything anybody is doing, they should do it with the fear of God and pray to God. He explained that he rejected the ₦5 million gift because he didn't want to be bribed. He had appealed to the authorities at the time, insisting that releasing the elder statesman was necessary as the military government was seeking wider public acceptance.

After Otedola's passport was eventually released, an emissary approached Akiolu with an offer of ₦5 million in appreciation, which he rejected. This incident showcases Akiolu's commitment to his values and principles, even in the face of temptation. Akiolu's background as a former Assistant Inspector General of Police has equipped him with a strong sense of integrity and discipline, which he has carried into his role as the Oba of Lagos. He won't compromise his values for anything.

Akiolu also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu. He's expressing optimism that the government's economic and infrastructural reforms would eventually benefit the nation. He praised Tinubu's long-term developmental vision, noting that major infrastructure projects currently being executed by the Federal Government, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Badagry-Sokoto road corridor, were conceived many years ago. These projects won't be completed overnight, but they're crucial for the country's development.

The traditional ruler recalled receiving confirmation of his appointment on May 23, 2003, at his Lagos residence. At the time, he prayed for Tinubu's political rise and eventual emergence as president of Nigeria. God Almighty Allah revealed to him that Tinubu would grow gradually and become the president of the country, Akiolu stated, reflecting on his ascension to the Lagos throne 23 years ago. The monarch described his emergence as an act of divine destiny. Despite opposition from some quarters, Tinubu stood firmly behind him, and Akiolu won't forget that.

Akiolu further urged Nigerians to remain united, prayerful, and supportive of one another in the face of insecurity across the country. The insecurity they're experiencing now, God Almighty Allah will bring it under control. They must all be their brother's keeper, Akiolu said, emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity. He also charged journalists and public office holders to uphold truth, fairness, and service to humanity. The media is a powerful institution capable of influencing society positively, and it shouldn't be used to spread misinformation.

The traditional ruler expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life and family. He revealed that several of his children and grandchildren attended prestigious institutions abroad, including Imperial College London, while one recently qualified as a chartered accountant. Islamic clerics led by the Chief Imam of Lagos offered prayers for the monarch on the occasion, marking his 23rd coronation anniversary with prayers for Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu. They're praying for the country's prosperity and peace.