Chairman of Globacom Mike Adenuga on Thursday joined President Bola Tinubu in paying a visit to the paramount ruler of Ijebuland Oba Sikiru Adetona in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Others in the entourage were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and former Speaker of the House of Representatives Dimeji Bankole.
In Ijebu-Ode, Tinubu said he remained hopeful and optimistic about achieving victory in the last presidential election, despite the ineffective cashless policy implemented by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The president spoke in separate remarks at the palaces of Oba Adetona, and Alake of Egbaland Oba Adedotun Gbadebo in Abeokuta, during a thank-you visit to the royal fathers.
Reflecting on the challenges in the build-up to the 2023 presidential election, President Tinubu recounted his concerns about the confiscation of funds and the failure of the cashless policy, and how he had previously sought wisdom and guidance from Oba Adetona during his visit to the palace.
According to the president, he invoked the spirits of wisdom and determination, symbolised by ‘Baba Emilokan,’ to overcome the obstacles in the election.
“Our monies were confiscated. The cashless policy didn’t work, it was terrible then. I realised that I came to this palace to invoke the spirit of freedom which we are noted for.
“I invoked that spirit twice. The spirit of Baba Emilokan. That’s Baba. Being blunt, being decisive, that’s him, he will tell you. The second spirit is that money or no money (we will do the election and we will win),” he said.
Tinubu acknowledged that these spirits had been the driving force behind his service and expressed his gratitude to Oba Adetona, all the kings, elected officials, and particularly his ‘personal friend’ Senator Gbenga Daniel representing Ogun East.
He thanked them for their loyalty and commitment during those crucial times in the 2023 election.
Tinubu also acknowledged Adenuga’s presence and expressed pride in his contributions to the Nigerian economy.
During his visit to Abeokuta, Tinubu thanked Oba Gbadebo for receiving him, describing him as a great leader.
