The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I, on Friday prayed for Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (SOLAN) to emerge victorious in the coming 2019 Oyo State governorship poll.
Oba Adetunji offered this royal prayers when Senator Lanlehin, the ADC governorship candidate, visited him at his Popoyemoja Palace.
Lanlehin, who said he visited Oba Adetunji to receive royal blessings before officially commencing his campaign, was accompanied by ADC leaders like the Oyo State Chairman, Alh Hammed Ayinla, Secretary, Alh Wasiu Emiola, State PRO, Mr. Adedapo Ademola and the State Woman Leader, Mrs Funmi Arulogun, while candidates like Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, Hon Segun Olaleye, Hon Fatai Adesina, Hon Tolani Adigun, Hon Gaphar Ojetola, Hon Akeem Ige, and many others were also in attendance.
Lanlehin, who appreciated the Olubadan for his fatherly support, intimated Oba Adetunji of his nomination to contest the 2019 governorship election, under the banner of the ADC.
“I am here to notify you of my nomination to contest the 2019 governorship election under the ADC, and to seek your royal blessings”, he said.
“My father, Late Chief Samuel Owoola Lanlehin was in the Balogun Olubadan line before his demise, as such, I am a huge respecter of the traditional institution, and as a true Lanlehin son, I will always protect that revered institution”, he continued.
“There’s so much hunger and deprivation in the land, and our state needs a leader with the people’s love at heart”, he reiterated further.
Responding, the Olubadan, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji recalled with affection, the friendship and cordial relationship that existed between him and Senator Lanlehin’s father, Late Chief Samuel Owoola Lanlehin, noting that he also knows the younger Lanlehin to be of good character and conduct.
“I pray that you win the coming elections by the special grace of God”, the Olubadan offered, amidst cheers and songs from supporters and loyalists present at the event.
Meanwhile, in a related development, Senator Lanlehin worshipped at the Central Mosque, Ojaaba, after which he sought the support of Muslim faithfuls in the state.
“My family comprises both Christians and Muslims, and we’re all one. In fact, my running mate, Alh Saheed Adejare Alaran is a committed Muslim, so be assured you have a team in us which prioritises your welfare. To this end, I seek your support in the coming elections”, he said.
The Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abdul Ganiy Abubakri Agbotomokekere implored Lanlehin to remain a man of the people, at all times, and to continue prioritising the interest of the people. He would later name Lanlehin Salaudeen.
Similarly, the Oyo State ADC Campaign Flag Off, initially billed for Saturday, 22 December, 2018, has been postponed to Monday, 24 December, 2018, owing to the proposed visit of the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, to Iseyin, the scheduled venue of the ADC event.
