Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRashid Akanbi, well-known sons and daughters of Ibadan, and other well-wishers visited the Alarere, Ibadan home of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, yesterday despite the decision not to hold an elaborate celebration for the 80th birthday anniversary.
The monarch noticed that his supporters made it loud for him despite his lack of words and unable to conceal his amazement.
He said: “I don’t have enough words to express my gratitude.”
Oba Balogun, who celebrated his 80th birthday yesterday, was born at his parent's home at Lalupon, a suburb of Ibadan in the current Lagelu Local Government.
Despite the low-key celebration, the airwaves were deluged with congratulations from individuals and organisations, as well as visits from notable figures, such as Governor Makinde, who showed up unannounced at the monarch's Alarere home at around 2pm and met the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRashid Akanbi, and his entourage of about a dozen monarchs.
Oba Balogun expressed his surprise at the events' turnout in a statement sent by his personal assistant for media, Oladele Ogunsola. He noted that the family had decided to hold serious prayers at his Alarere mansion and Aliiwo ruling house, but he questioned how the public learned about it.
He said: “The public participation in the programme was simply a show of love for which I will remain eternally grateful. I never imagined that I could be that celebrated by my people, including those in the diaspora. What can I say than to remain appreciative to God while I continue to pray for the grace to serve Him through them the more.”
Olubadan also expressed surprise at Governor Makinde's visit, characterising it as the cherry on top of his birthday cake, symbolised by the outpouring of support from the populace.
He said: “The governor, whom I commonly refer to as my darling son, surprised me with his sudden appearance, even without notice. What else could one ask for? The first citizen of the state on visitation to my place, it’s a gift that cannot be placed any value on.
“I appreciate the governor and his entourage for the honour done to me and by extension to Ibadan people, on whose behalf I currently hold the throne. I equally thank my brother from Iwo, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRashid Akanbi Adewale Telu 1, who led a contingent of brother Obas from Osun State. I pray that you will all live long and our God will continue to increase your wisdom with which to direct the affairs of your people.”
According to the announcement, Mr. Bayo Lawal, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, as well as other government officials, were with the governor.
He said: “The public participation in the programme was simply a show of love for which I will remain eternally grateful. I never imagined that I could be that celebrated by my people, including those in the diaspora. What can I say than to remain appreciative to God while I continue to pray for the grace to serve Him through them the more.”
Olubadan also expressed surprise at Governor Makinde's visit, characterising it as the cherry on top of his birthday cake, symbolised by the outpouring of support from the populace.
He said: “The governor, whom I commonly refer to as my darling son, surprised me with his sudden appearance, even without notice. What else could one ask for? The first citizen of the state on visitation to my place, it’s a gift that cannot be placed any value on.
“I appreciate the governor and his entourage for the honour done to me and by extension to Ibadan people, on whose behalf I currently hold the throne. I equally thank my brother from Iwo, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRashid Akanbi Adewale Telu 1, who led a contingent of brother Obas from Osun State. I pray that you will all live long and our God will continue to increase your wisdom with which to direct the affairs of your people.”
According to the announcement, Mr. Bayo Lawal, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, as well as other government officials, were with the governor.