By Ayodele Abere
The Imperial Majesty, Oba Rufus Adejugbe Aladesanmi 111, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, has again expressed his profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his inspiring leadership and steadfast commitment to fostering unity and progress of Nigeria.
The Royal father expressed the appreciation on Saturday while delivering a speech at the launch of his autobiography, “Crowned In Grace”, as part of the activities marking the 80th birthday and 35th coronation anniversary of the monarch, held at the Ewi’s palace, Ado-Ekiti, the State capital.
The foremost traditional ruler in Ekiti State who also thanked the State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji for his love, care and support noted that the governor’s inclusive leadership style and unwavering commitment to fostering unity, cultural pride, and social-economic development in the State created enabling environment for the historic occasion.
The book, Crowned in Grace, according to the monarch, was a testament that no destiny is beyond redemption, and no calling too high for the humble.
“My story is about grace transforming pain into purpose, and challenges into opportunities. Confidence in God has been my compass, guiding my decisions and strengthening me in all circumstances”, Oba Adejugbe stated.
The monarch who remarked that the book, Crowned In Grace is not just his story, but of the entire Ado Ekiti indigenes as it speaks on the strength of community, and the timeless value of service, explained that he wrote the book to give thanks to God and to equally preserve the history and heritage of Ado-Ekiti for future generations, and to share the lessons of leadership and strategic cooperation.
In his remarks, the book reviewer, Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), described Oba Rufus Adejugbe as custodian of culture and champion of modernity saying the transformation under his reign saw Ado-Ekiti becoming a State capital with good structures, modern governance, collaboration and cultural revival, stand as a testament to what leadership rooted in Grace can achieve. Kabiyesi has remained a very precious leader, he added.
The Co – Launcher 1, former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, also stressed that the monarch’s reign has brought much development to Ado-Ekiti stating that Ado has become a commercial town center of Ekiti State.
While congratulating the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, he pointed out that the royal father has displayed maturity and calmness in his approach to issues.
“Kabiyesi would speak and you will know that all he says would carry some weight. People would like to listen to what he would say”, the former governor said.
Also, the Co – Launcher 2, Founder of Venite University, Iloro Ekiti, Hon. Dapo Kolawole appreciated Ewi for the honour of sending him invitation as Co-launcher at the event. He pledged to continue to contribute to the development of Ado-Ekiti
In his goodwill message to Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, the Chairman of the occasion, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by Alhaji Mojeed Jamiu, expressed his heartfelt felicitations to the monarch on the joyous occasion describing his 35 years of reign as exemplary and revered.
“Your remarkable journey through life and leadership stands as a sterling example of peace, wisdom and unwavering dedication to the service of your people. For over three decades, your reign has been defined by steadfast commitment to peace, cultural preservation and advancement of Ado-Ekiti which continues to resonate well beyond the boundaries of your kingdom”, the governor remarked.
A ranking member of the House of Representatives, representing Ekiti Central Constituency 1, Hon. Steve Fatoba, on behalf of the National Assembly Members, and the Honourable Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuden Abbas, appreciated the entire sons and daughters of Ado-Ekiti for their supports for the monarch.
On his part, the Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Enitan, the Ooni of Ife, while thanking God for sparing Ewi’s life to witness the day, prayed that the monarch would enjoy the grace to celebrate many more years on the throne of his forefathers in sound health.
Highlight of the occasion well graced by dignitaries from all walks of life was installation of chieftaincy titles on the deserving Ado sons and daughters.
