It was a mix of glamour and grandeur as political associates including members of the national assembly, Kano state council of Emirs led by its chairman, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero, Igbo and Yoruba communities in Kano and top government functionaries converged on the ancient Mapo Hall, Ibadan, to celebrate the conferment of prestigious chieftaincy title of Aare Fiwajoye on Kano state governor, Dr Umar Ganduje and his wife, Professor Hafsat Ganduje as Yeye Aare Fiwajoye of Ibadanland by the Olubaban of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun.
Speaking through the Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Dr Kola Balogun, Oba Balogun explained that the title, which is the first of its kind during his reign was to re-create and strengthen the bond of unity and age-long friendship between Ibadan and Kano, which are mini-Nigeria.
Oba Balogun said the title, which was in recognition of good character personified, stated that it was befitting of the Gandujes who are peace loving and accommodating.
In a goodwill message, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu noted that the choice of Governor Ganduje whom he described as a compatriot would promote peace, unity and stability in the country.
Asiwaju Tinubu pointed out that it was a rare privilege for non-indigenes to be bestowed with such honour in Yorubaland, prayed for Olubaban to continue to reign in peace.
In his acceptance speech, the Aare Fiwajoye of Ibadanland, Dr Umar Ganduje while thanking the Olubaban for being considered worthy stated that the title was historic and a step to engender national integration.
Governor Ganduje, who expressed optimism that Asiwaju Tinubu would prioritize initiatives to promote national unity when he becomes president, added that the title would also serve as encouragement for vision of a united Nigeria in a heterogeneous setting.
President, University of Ibadan Alumni Association Worldwide, Professor Elsie Adewoye described Governor Ganduje as a distinguished alumnus of the first university in Nigeria expressed appreciation to the Olubaban for the honour.
Professor Adewoye hinted that Governor Ganduje is constructing a large auditorium for the institution to be commissioned in three months time.
Oba Yoruba in Kano, Alhaji Muritala Alimi-Otisese emphasized that Governor Ganduje is a detribalised leader, who provides conducive atmosphere for non-indigenes to live and pursue their legitimate businesses.
The event, which featured a drama presentation on unity in diversity had in attendance Oyo state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde represented by the Commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Olubaban in council and other revered dignitaries.
Sherifdeen Nashirdeen
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