As part of his tour of Oyo state, former vice president Abubakar Atiku paid a courtesy visit on Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola in his Ibadan residence.
OYOINSIGHT.COM, it would be recalled, had reported how the former vice-president, for more than 24 hours, held meetings with political and religious within and from neighbouring states, in Ibadan.
The presidential hopeful, along other dignitaries, had arrived the state capital, as special guest for the unveiling of the remodeled Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Adamasingba.
The Waziri Adamawa who was accompanied by former governors Muazu Babangida Aliyu, Boni Haruna; Senators Dino Melaye, Osamere, Abiodun Olujimi, Abu Ningi and other top politicians was welcome to the Aare’s villa by Dr. Saka Balogun, former chief of staff to former governor Adebayo Adebayo Alao-Akala, who said Atiku’s visit, though not political but familiar, was a step in the right direction as it would give the Southern muslims more sense of belonging in the Nigeria polity.
He prayed God grant the Waziri Adamawa’s heart desire of stepping into the position where he could steer the ship of the country to greater and better destination as he strongly believe that Nigerians were anxiously waiting for his leadership acumen.
In his speech, Atiku expressed his sincere appreciation to De-damak, saying he was known for his friendliness and hospitality.
He added that he saw sincerity in his love for the people of Oyo State and Yorubaland, emphasizing that hia visit to the state was to further reconnect with the beautiful, accomodating and ever friendly people of the southwest through the Islamic leaders.
He explained that he was overwhelmed by the deep hearted prayers that were said in various languages with deep spiritual reflections, the show of love and the encomium showered on him especially at this critical moment in the history of Nigeria.
Atiku, who also spoke on the state of the nation, expressed his displeasure at the current state of the country, describing it as ‘perilous situation’, saying that even during the civil war the country was not as bad as it is now.
He advised that all hands must be on deck to rescue the country from those that were responsible for plunging her into the current state.
De-damak thanked the former VP for taking time out of his very busy schedule to lead such a powerful delegation on the visit and for joining the people of Oyo State to celebrate the great achievements of Governor Seyi Makinde.
Bfore going into close door meeting with Atiku, Aare commended him for his wonderful contributions to national development, his leadership virtues and statesmanship at all times.
Details of the private discussions between the former VP and the Aare Musulumi were not revealed to media men after both leaders emerged from their meeting.
Some of the dignitaries who joined the Aare to received Atiku included the former Liasion Officer to President Shehu Shagari, Dr Saka Balogun, Iyalaje Adeen of Yorubaland, Alhaja Sidikat Aderibigbe, the Babaloja General Of Oyo State, Alh Yekini Abass, the Iyaloja General Of Oyo State, Alhaja (Princess) Folasade Abeo Nurudeen, Dr Kola Hammed chairman, Aare Musulumi in Council – Oyo, Chairman Civil Service Commission of Oyo State, Alhaji Kamoru Aderibigbe, the Chief Imam of Oluyole Estate, Sheikh Mudathir Folorunso Bada, Chairman Yusrullah Association of Nigerian, Alhaji (Engr) Isiaka Adeniran and a host of other important personalities.
